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NHAI Demands Better Mobile Coverage on 424 Highway Stretches for Safety

The National Highways Authority of India has identified 424 locations spanning approximately 1,750 km where mobile network connectivity is critically lacking. It has formally requested the Department of Telecommunications and TRAI to direct telecom operators to address these gaps, citing major implications for public safety and emergency services. NHAI has also proposed a system for geo-targeted SMS alerts to warn drivers about accident-prone areas, including stretches with stray cattle. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to ensure India's highway network is both physically and digitally enabled for safer travel.

Key Points: NHAI Urges DoT, TRAI to Fix Mobile Gaps on 424 Highway Locations

  • 424 highway locations lack mobile network
  • Covers 1,750 km of NH network
  • NHAI seeks DoT, TRAI intervention for connectivity
  • Proposes SMS alerts at accident-prone zones
  • Aims to improve emergency response and safety
2 min read

NHAI asks DoT, TRAI to boost mobile connectivity on 424 National Highway locations

NHAI identifies 424 locations with poor mobile connectivity on highways, seeks DoT and TRAI intervention for public safety and emergency response.

"absence of dependable mobile network coverage... adversely impacts National Highway operations, emergency response mechanism - Ministry of Road Transport and Highways"

New Delhi, Jan 6

The National Highway Authority of India on Tuesday said it has sought the intervention of the Department of Telecommunications and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India to issue appropriate directions to Telecom Service Providers for addressing non-availability of the mobile network connectivity on several stretches of National Highways.

As part of a comprehensive assessment undertaken by NHAI, 424 locations covering about 1,750 km across the National Highway network have been identified as critically affected due to non-availability of the mobile network connectivity.

"Detailed information on these locations has been compiled and formally shared with the Department of Telecommunications and TRAI for necessary action," said the NHAI.

Emphasising the public safety implications and the strategic significance of the National Highway network, NHAI has called for an expeditious and coordinated approach to improve mobile network connectivity on the National Highway corridors across the country.

"As the National Highway corridors traverses through remote and rural areas, absence of dependable mobile network coverage on these sections adversely impacts National Highway operations, emergency response mechanism and delivery of technology-enabled public services," said the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

In addition, NHAI has requested TRAI to issue necessary directions to telecom operators for dissemination of proactive SMS or Flash SMS alerts at geo-mapped accident-prone locations, including stretches affected by stray cattle movement and other identified hazards.

The ministry further said that these alerts are intended to reach road users prior to their arrival at such locations, enabling timely caution and safer driving behaviour.

A list of accident-prone stretches frequently impacted by stray cattle has also been shared with TRAI.

"By seeking intervention to address mobile network connectivity gaps and enhancing safety along National Highways, NHAI reaffirms its commitment to working in close coordination with all concerned stakeholders to ensure that National Highway network is not only physically well-connected but is also digitally enabled," according to an official statement.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally! The proactive SMS alerts for accident-prone zones and stray cattle areas are a brilliant idea. So many accidents happen because drivers are caught unaware. Digital enablement of highways is the need of the hour. Good move.
R
Rohit P
While the intent is good, I hope this doesn't become another file-pushing exercise between ministries. We have beautiful highways now, but what's the use if you can't even call for help? The telcos need to be held accountable for coverage.
S
Sarah B
As someone who travels frequently for work, reliable connectivity is not a luxury, it's a necessity. The focus on remote areas is crucial. This will boost not just safety but also local economies if people can stay connected.
V
Vikram M
The stray cattle menace is a real issue on highways. Getting an SMS alert before entering such a zone can save lives. Hope they implement this quickly across all states. Jai Hind!
K
Karthik V
A much-needed initiative. However, I respectfully think identifying the problem is only half the battle. The execution and maintenance of these towers in remote locations will be key. Who will bear the cost? Hope it's a collaborative model.
A
Ananya R

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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