Humsafar Policy to Benefit Marginal Sections and Promote Eco-Friendly Highway Amenities: Nitin Gadkari

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ajay Tamta highlighted the successful construction of 1.5 lakh kilometers of National Highways under the guidance of Minister Gadkari.

In a significant move to improve the travel experience on National Highways, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, launched the ‘Humsafar Policy’ today in New Delhi. This initiative aims to enhance the convenience of travelers while accelerating the development of Wayside Amenities. Shri Ajay Tamta, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, was also present at the launch.

Benefits for Local Communities

During the unveiling, Minister Gadkari emphasized the policy's focus on benefiting local marginalized communities. He stated, "This initiative will facilitate a smooth, safe, and pleasant journey for all users while being environmentally friendly." The policy has been crafted with careful consideration of ecological factors, such as water and soil conservation, waste recycling, and solar energy utilization.

Commitment to Quality Service

Minister Gadkari urged officials to ensure that passengers receive quality services through the implementation of the policy. He mentioned the establishment of several Green Highways under the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) that will include various amenities designed to enhance traveler experience.

Comprehensive Amenities

The policy outlines a range of essential facilities that petrol station owners and service providers along National Highways must ensure, including:

Food courts and cafeterias

Fuel stations

Electric vehicle charging stations

Parking and toilet facilities

Baby care rooms

ATMs

Vehicle repair shops

Pharmacies

These amenities are expected to significantly improve the experience for National Highway users.

Infrastructure Development

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Ajay Tamta highlighted the successful construction of 1.5 lakh kilometers of National Highways under the guidance of Minister Gadkari. He noted that the initiative aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision for transforming India’s infrastructure, despite numerous challenges.

A Comprehensive Framework for Service Providers

The ‘Humsafar Policy’ aims to establish a standardized framework that ensures commuters have access to well-maintained and hygienic facilities. Existing and upcoming service providers in categories such as eateries, fuel stations, and trauma centers will be eligible for registration under this policy. Key features include:

Waiver of renewal fees for existing access permissions

Increased visibility through signage along National Highways

Online presence through the NHAI’s ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ mobile app

Enhanced Commuter Interaction

The ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app will allow commuters to quickly find relevant service providers near their location. It will also empower users to report issues and rate the services received. Service providers maintaining an average rating of 3 stars or higher will benefit from fee waivers.

Monitoring and Quality Assurance

The policy includes stringent provisions for monitoring and inspecting registered service providers. A third-party agency will conduct regular inspections to ensure that facilities meet established standards. Service providers will receive alerts via email or SMS if their ratings fall below the average of 3 stars, prompting more frequent inspections of those facilities.

The ‘Humsafar Policy’ represents a landmark step towards establishing world-class services along National Highways by standardizing high-quality facilities and enhancing the overall travel experience for commuters. The launch event was attended by key officials, including Sh. D. Sarangi, Director General & Special Secretary in the Ministry, Sh. Santosh Kumar Yadav, Chairman of NHAI, and representatives from various sectors, including wayside amenities developers, hospitality companies, and oil marketing companies.

This initiative is poised to redefine travel along India’s National Highways, promoting not only convenience and safety but also environmental sustainability and community upliftment.