With the onset of the monsoon season, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Monday initiated a series of proactive measures to tackle waterlogging and ensure effective flood management across the country’s national highway network. In a concerted effort to enhance road safety and maintain uninterrupted travel, NHAI has launched a 15-day nationwide inspection and preparedness campaign.
Under this drive, NHAI officials, contractors, and consultants are conducting inspections across vulnerable highway stretches to identify critical areas susceptible to waterlogging, landslides, or other monsoon-related disruptions. Special attention is being given to maintaining the free flow of water through key infrastructure elements such as bridges and culverts.
As part of the preparedness plan, rainwater harvesting structures are being cleaned and desilted, while drains and outlets are being repaired to facilitate efficient drainage. Simultaneously, pothole repairs are underway on both main carriageways and slip roads, and efforts are being made to clear culverts, cross drains, and drainage systems, particularly in areas with a history of flooding. Reinforced Earth (RE) wall weep holes are also being cleaned to improve water discharge.
To strengthen the emergency response framework, NHAI is deploying essential equipment and materials—including excavators, sandbags, and traffic signage—at flood-prone locations. The authority is also working in close coordination with executing agencies, local authorities, and district administrations to respond swiftly to early warnings of floods or landslides. Machinery and manpower are being mobilised quickly to mitigate risks in vulnerable areas.
Round-the-clock Emergency Response Teams will be stationed at strategic points along the highways, equipped with the necessary tools to handle waterlogging and related incidents. Quick Response Teams have also been activated at NHAI field offices for real-time monitoring of critical sites.
Leveraging technology, NHAI is enhancing its monitoring systems through AI-powered Intelligent Traffic Management Systems. Real-time weather and traffic updates will be made available to highway users via mobile alerts through the NHAI Rajmargyatra app and the IMD Meghdoot app. In addition, drones are being deployed to monitor road conditions, ensure proper slope maintenance, and detect pavement cracks for timely repair.
