NHAI Demands Telecom Fix for 424 Highway 'Blackspots'

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AuthorKavya Nair|Published at:
NHAI Demands Telecom Fix for 424 Highway 'Blackspots'
Overview

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has identified 424 critical mobile network blackspots along national highways, spanning approximately 1,750 km. These connectivity gaps hinder emergency response and traveler safety. NHAI is petitioning the telecom regulator TRAI to compel operators to enhance mobile coverage on these hazardous stretches.

Highway Connectivity Gaps Hamper Safety

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has pinpointed 424 locations across its highway network that suffer from a complete lack of mobile network coverage. These "telecom blackspots," covering about 1,750 kilometers, pose a significant risk to travelers by disrupting essential communication during emergencies.

NHAI Chairman Satosh Kumar Yadav has formally communicated these concerns to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI). The absence of mobile signals is particularly prevalent on newer greenfield highways and expressways, as well as remote road sections. Specific examples cited include three stretches totaling approximately 69 km on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway near Ratlam, and the entire 51-km segment between Harda and Betul in Madhya Pradesh, which lack any mobile service.

Initiative for Proactive Safety Alerts

Beyond emergency calls, NHAI is pushing for proactive safety measures. The authority has proposed implementing free SMS and Flash SMS alerts for road users approaching accident-prone zones. These alerts, intended to be delivered about 15 minutes in advance, would cover areas affected by hazards like stray cattle movement and other dangers.

An intensive exercise involving field officers and patrolling staff has mapped these blackspots and accident-prone locations using precise latitude and longitude coordinates. NHAI urges TRAI to direct telecom operators to facilitate these crucial safety alerts at no cost, aiming to prevent fatalities and enhance road user safety across the network.

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