In a move aimed at enhancing the travel experience on India’s National Highways and Expressways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has directed for the development of vehicle repair and puncture repair facilities at Wayside Amenities (WSAs) across the country.
The initiative, spearheaded by National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a wholly owned subsidiary of NHAI, seeks to strengthen the availability of essential roadside services and provide timely assistance to commuters and freight operators traveling on national highway corridors.
NHLML has instructed its field offices to advise WSA lessees to prioritize the establishment of vehicle repair shops and puncture repair facilities at the earliest. The move is intended to reduce vehicle downtime, enhance road safety, and ensure quicker support during breakdowns and emergency situations.
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) noted that there is a growing need for such services on several highways and expressways, where motorists often face inconvenience and delays due to the lack of readily available mechanical assistance. The addition of repair facilities is expected to help travelers address vehicle-related issues promptly, improving overall journey comfort and safety.
NHLML is currently developing a network of modern Wayside Amenities under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model through long-term lease arrangements. Under existing agreements, concessionaires and lessees are permitted to develop a range of facilities beyond the mandatory amenities prescribed for each WSA. Vehicle repair shops and puncture repair centres are among the approved facilities that can be established under the contractual framework.
The Wayside Amenities are being envisioned as integrated service hubs offering a variety of facilities for both private commuters and commercial vehicle operators. The inclusion of repair and maintenance services is expected to further strengthen their role as one-stop support centres for highway users.
According to NHAI, the initiative underlines its commitment to develop safe and user-centric National Highway corridors that support economic growth, while meeting the evolving needs of commuters and logistics operators across the country.
