New Delhi: Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Nitin Gadkari, launched the ‘Humsafar Policy’ today in New Delhi, aiming to improve the travel experience on India’s National Highways (NH) and accelerate the development of Wayside Amenities. The launch event, attended by Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways Shri Ajay Tamta, marks a significant step toward enhancing road infrastructure and services for commuters across the country.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Nitin Gadkari emphasized that the policy is designed to benefit local marginalized communities while ensuring a smooth, safe, and comfortable journey for highway users. He noted that the initiative is environmentally friendly, incorporating elements like water and soil conservation, waste recycling, and solar energy into its design. “This policy prioritizes ecology and cleanliness,” said the Union Minister.
Gadkari urged ministry officials to focus on delivering quality services through the policy. He mentioned that several Green Highways under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have been planned, keeping these enhanced amenities in mind. He also called on petrol pump owners along highways to ensure the availability of basic services, such as clean restrooms and parking, as per set norms.
The Humsafar Policy outlines a comprehensive framework to ensure that commuters have access to well-maintained and hygienic facilities along the highways. These amenities will include food courts, cafeterias, fuel stations, electric vehicle charging stations, parking facilities, toilet facilities, baby care rooms, ATMs, vehicle repair shops, and pharmacies.
Minister of State Ajay Tamta, while addressing the gathering, praised the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, which has led to the development of 1.5 lakh kilometers of National Highways. He highlighted the significant strides made in the country’s infrastructure, overcoming various challenges.
The Humsafar Policy aims to benefit service providers as well as commuters. Registered service providers, including eateries, fuel stations, and trauma centers, will benefit from waivers on renewal fees for access permissions. They will also have the opportunity to increase their visibility through signage on National Highways and by being featured on the NHAI’s ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ mobile app, which will help boost their online presence.
Commuters, on the other hand, will benefit from access to standardized and well-maintained facilities, with details of nearby service providers available instantly on the ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app. The app will also allow users to report issues, rate services, and track facility maintenance. Service providers maintaining an average rating of 3-stars or higher will enjoy continued fee waivers, while those falling below will face increased inspections and corrective actions.
The policy includes strict provisions for monitoring and inspection to ensure high-quality services. A third-party agency appointed by the authority will regularly inspect registered service providers to maintain standards. Alerts will be sent to service providers whose ratings drop below 3-stars, and their facilities will be subject to more frequent inspections.