NHAI implements guidelines for enhanced road safety measures on national highways

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced guidelines to improve road safety by rectifying accident-prone spots on National Highways through short-term measures. NHAI Project Directors have now been empowered to undertake rectification measures at accident-prone spots recommended by State Police Chiefs or the District Road Safety Committee, with a budget of up to Rs. 10 lakh per spot. For short-term measures costing more than Rs. 10 lakh and up to Rs. 25 lakh, the authority's Regional Office will be responsible.

These financial powers supplement the previously issued NHAI guidelines, where Project Directors could approve rectification of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) notified black spots through short-term measures, up to Rs. 25 lakh per black spot. The procurement of works can also be carried out by combining multiple accident spots under a project.

While MoRTH identifies black spots based on defined parameters, NHAI has proactively undertaken this initiative to rectify accident-prone spots on National Highways, in addition to the MoRTH-notified black spots. The short-term measures include the installation of pedestrian facilities such as zebra crossings with advance warning signs, crash barriers, railings, junction improvements, solar lights/blinkers, road signages, and implementation of traffic calming measures, among others.

Enhancing safety on National Highways remains a top priority for NHAI, as the authority is committed to ensuring a secure, smooth, and seamless travel experience for all commuters on these important road networks.