NHAI introduces mechanized maintenance framework to enhance highway quality and user experience

New Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a series of technology-driven initiatives aimed at modernising maintenance practices across the country's National Highways and Expressways through increased mechanisation and automation.

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As part of the initiative, NHAI has issued comprehensive guidelines for mechanized maintenance of drainage systems in urban and built-up areas and the deployment of advanced road maintenance equipment, including Automatic Pothole Filling, Compacting & Patching Machines and Mechanized Road Sweeping Machines.

The authority said the measures are designed to improve maintenance efficiency and quality through the adoption of modern technologies, preventive maintenance practices and stricter enforcement of contractual obligations. The initiatives are expected to enhance highway quality, strengthen sustainability and improve the travel experience for road users.

With the monsoon season approaching, NHAI has mandated mechanized cleaning of lined drains along National Highways and Expressways in urban and built-up areas. The framework involves the integrated use of advanced equipment such as high-flow super suction and jetting units, hydraulic grab machines and dewatering pump sets for efficient removal of silt, slurry and heavy debris from drainage channels.

Mechanized drain cleaning will be incorporated as a mandatory provision in future maintenance contracts for urban highway sections. NHAI has also directed contractors and concessionaires to strictly adhere to maintenance schedules and inspection protocols, while ensuring timely rectification of drainage-related deficiencies.

Framework for assessment and approval

In a parallel move, NHAI has issued guidelines for the deployment of Automatic Pothole Filling, Compacting & Patching Machines and Mechanized Road Sweeping Machines under Performance-Based Maintenance Contracts (PBMC). The framework provides for assessment and approval of costs associated with the deployment of these technologies in ongoing maintenance contracts and seeks to accelerate their adoption across the national highway network.

According to NHAI, automatic pothole repair machines will enable faster pavement restoration, reduce maintenance response times and minimise inconvenience to commuters. Timely repairs are expected to improve ride quality and help preserve the structural integrity of highway assets.

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Mechanized road sweeping machines, meanwhile, will facilitate systematic cleaning of carriageways and paved shoulders by removing dust, silt and loose particulate matter. The authority said the technology will contribute to cleaner highway corridors, enhanced visibility, improved road safety and reduced dust pollution.

The sweeping machines have already been deployed on the Varanasi–Aurangabad and Handia–Rajatalab highway stretches, as well as on several projects in Haryana, Punjab and Gujarat.

NHAI said the adoption of mechanized drain cleaning, automated pothole repair systems and advanced road sweeping technologies would strengthen preventive maintenance practices, improve operational efficiency and significantly enhance the overall user experience on India's National Highway network.

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