National Highway Authority (NHAI) is taking comprehensive preparations to address issues such as waterlogging, landslides, and road subsidence on national highways during the monsoon season.
Waterlogging, landslides, and traffic congestion are common occurrences on highways during the monsoon season. However, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is now gearing up to tackle these challenges. The NHAI will provide passengers traveling on highways with real-time updates and weather information during rainfall. This service is being launched specifically to enhance passenger safety and facilitate smoother travel.
Alerts via AI-Based System
To achieve this, the NHAI is utilizing an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based Intelligent Traffic Management System. This system will analyze weather and traffic conditions and provide drivers with real-time updates. These alerts will be sent via the NHAI’s ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app and the IMD’s ‘Meghdoot’ app.
With this technology, drivers will receive advance notice of potential hazards such as waterlogging or landslides during rainfall, allowing them to take precautions or choose alternative routes.
Highway Monitoring with Drones
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has stated that this monsoon, the NHAI is focusing on the condition of highways across the country. As part of this, locations with a higher risk of flooding, waterlogging, or landslides are being identified.
Drone technology will be utilized to monitor these sensitive areas. Drones will not only detect the condition of road surfaces but also examine cracks in sidewalks, conduct thorough inspections of slopes, and monitor drainage systems. This information will be relayed to relevant agencies promptly to enable timely remedial actions.
Emergency Response Teams Deployed
Where necessary, emergency response teams will also be activated. These teams are being prepared to handle situations such as water accumulation, road subsidence, or traffic blockages during periods of heavy rainfall. This will ensure travel without disruption and with enhanced safety.
15-Day Special Inspection Campaign Launched
Ahead of the monsoon, the NHAI has launched a 15-day special inspection campaign across the country. During this campaign, NHAI officials, contractors, and consultants are jointly examining various parts of the national highways. The objective is to identify hotspots where there is a higher risk of waterlogging, road damage, or landslides.
Focusing on Specific Locations
- Maintaining unimpeded water flow beneath bridges and underpasses
- Rectifying drainage systems
- Repairing damaged road surfaces
- Improving drainage systems
All these measures aim to protect passengers from any inconvenience during the monsoon season.
Significant Relief for Drivers
This NHAI initiative will be particularly beneficial for the millions of drivers and passengers who travel on highways during the rain. With real-time weather alerts, they will be able to plan their journeys in advance and avoid potentially hazardous or blocked routes.
Furthermore, receiving alerts about accidents or waterlogging before they occur will ensure safer and more punctual travel. This will not only increase passenger confidence but also reduce traffic congestion, fuel wastage, and road accidents.
What Should Travelers Do?
- Download the ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app and the ‘Meghdoot’ app on your smartphones
- Check weather updates before starting your journey
- Avoid routes or opt for alternative routes when alerts are received
- Follow warning boards and signage on the highway
- Maintain a limited vehicle speed during rainfall and take necessary precautions
A Step Towards the Future
This strategy by the NHAI is a significant step towards smart infrastructure and digital services in India. Measures such as real-time weather alerts, drone monitoring, and emergency response teams demonstrate that the government is now more aware and technologically equipped to ensure the safety of road travelers.
This initiative will not only reduce the inconveniences during the monsoon season but also lay the foundation for safe and smart travel across the country in the future.
