NHAI To Prioritize Vehicle Repair And Puncture Shops Across All National Expressways

The National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML), a unit of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has ordered its field offices to prioritize the development of vehicle repair shops and puncture assistance facilities at existing Wayside Amenities (WSAs). This directive aims to address frequent motorist complaints regarding vehicle breakdowns and tire issues on access-controlled expressways and national highways.

The government initiative focuses on upgrading the network of over 700 planned Wayside Amenities, which are strategically placed at intervals of 40-60 km. Currently, 134 of these facilities are operational, with 511 projects awarded and 56 under active bidding. These amenities, typically spread over four hectares, already include fuel stations, restrooms, and EV charging ports, now expanding to include essential roadside mechanical support.

By integrating mechanical services into these lease-based Public Private Partnership sites, the NHAI intends to mitigate safety concerns and reduce delays caused by roadside breakdowns. While existing lease agreements require a specific set of mandatory services, the authorization of repair shops as a permissible facility marks a tactical policy shift to enhance service reliability on major greenfield corridors like the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway.