The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a nationwide initiative to develop world-class public toilet facilities at toll plazas across the country, introducing a technology-driven, performance-based maintenance framework aimed at improving hygiene, accessibility and commuter convenience on the National Highway network.
The initiative seeks to upgrade sanitation facilities through innovative performance-based contracts that will ensure high standards of cleanliness, functionality and long-term maintenance. As part of the programme, NHAI will renovate existing toilet blocks and construct new facilities based on standardised, indigenously developed designs featuring durable structures and sustainable green building infrastructure.
According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), the upgraded sanitation blocks will provide clean, safe and accessible public amenities while maintaining uniform quality standards across the National Highway network.
To ensure consistent service quality, NHAI has adopted a technology-enabled maintenance model that integrates Internet of Things (IoT)-based live telemetry systems for real-time monitoring of maintenance parameters. The system is designed to enable proactive upkeep and improve the efficiency of facility management.
The operational framework also introduces a performance-linked payment mechanism to enhance accountability among maintenance agencies. Payments will be linked to automated Service Level Agreement (SLA) assessments, periodic independent audits and verified commuter feedback submitted through NHAI’s RajmargYatra mobile application.
The MoRTH said all newly developed facilities will comply with the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016, by incorporating universal accessibility features to ensure barrier-free access for persons with disabilities.
The upgraded toilet complexes will also focus on providing a reliable supply of clean water, modern sanitation infrastructure and improved hygiene standards. Special provisions have been included to enhance the safety, privacy and convenience of women travellers.
With the initiative, NHAI aims to improve the overall travel experience for highway users by providing modern public sanitation facilities supported by digital monitoring and outcome-based maintenance, while setting new benchmarks for commuter amenities across India’s National Highway network.
