NHAI Rolls Out Mechanized Highway Maintenance Drive; Automated Pothole Repair and Drain Cleaning Made Mandatory

In a major push towards modernising highway maintenance across the country, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a series of technology-driven measures aimed at improving the efficiency, quality and sustainability of maintenance operations on National Highways and Expressways.

The authority has issued comprehensive guidelines mandating mechanized drain cleaning in urban and built-up stretches while also promoting the deployment of advanced maintenance equipment such as Automatic Pothole Filling, Compacting & Patching Machines and Mechanized Road Sweeping Machines.

The move is expected to strengthen preventive maintenance practices, improve road conditions and enhance the overall travel experience for millions of highway users across India.

Mechanized Drain Cleaning Ahead of Monsoon

With the onset of the monsoon season, NHAI has made mechanized cleaning of lined drains mandatory on National Highway and Expressway stretches passing through urban and built-up areas. The initiative aims to improve stormwater drainage and minimize the risk of waterlogging on highways.

Under the new framework, advanced equipment including High-Flow Super Suction & Jetting Units, Hydraulic Grab Machines and Dewatering Pump Sets will be deployed for dewatering, loosening accumulated silt, suction of slurry and removal of heavy debris from drainage channels.

NHAI has directed contractors and concessionaires to adhere strictly to prescribed maintenance schedules and inspection protocols. Compliance will be monitored closely to ensure timely identification and rectification of drainage-related issues.

Automated Pothole Repair to Reduce Maintenance Time

In another significant initiative, NHAI has issued guidelines for the deployment of Automatic Pothole Filling, Compacting & Patching Machines under Performance-Based Maintenance Contracts (PBMC).

The authority believes that automated pothole repair technology will substantially reduce maintenance response times, improve repair quality and minimize inconvenience to commuters. Faster and more durable repairs are expected to enhance ride comfort while preserving the structural integrity of highway pavements.

The guidelines also provide a framework for assessment and approval of costs associated with the deployment of these advanced technologies in existing maintenance contracts, paving the way for wider adoption across the National Highway network.

Mechanized Road Sweeping for Cleaner and Safer Highways

To improve highway cleanliness and safety, NHAI has also promoted the use of Mechanized Road Sweeping Machines for systematic cleaning of carriageways and paved shoulders.

These machines are capable of efficiently removing dust, silt and loose particulate matter, helping improve visibility and road safety while reducing dust-related pollution along major highway corridors.

According to NHAI, mechanized sweeping machines have already been deployed on projects including the National Highway stretches connecting Varanasi–Aurangabad and Handia–Rajatalab, along with several highway projects in Haryana, Punjab and Gujarat.

Shift Towards Technology-Led Asset Management

The adoption of mechanized drain cleaning, automated pothole repair systems and advanced road sweeping technologies marks a significant shift towards technology-led highway asset management in India.

By reducing dependence on manual maintenance practices and enhancing operational efficiency, NHAI aims to strengthen preventive maintenance, improve road safety standards and deliver a better travel experience for highway users.

The latest initiatives are expected to play a crucial role in maintaining world-class highway infrastructure and supporting the long-term sustainability of India’s rapidly expanding road network.