Latest news with #NHAI
Time of India
3 hours ago
- Automotive
- Time of India
Coming soon: No NOC for RC, insurance renewal without paying toll dues
. NEW DELHI: Those with pending toll dues for use of National Highways (NHs) will soon not be able to get a no-objection certificate (NOC) for renewal of registration and insurance, change of ownership, transfer and issuance of fitness certificate. The road transport ministry has issued a draft notification to introduce this change in Motor Vehicle Rules, to boost digital collection of toll fees and ensure that no one gets a free ride on tolled highways. The move gains further importance in light of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) going for multi lane free flow (MLFF) on NH stretches for tolling purposes, with there being no physical barrier to stop vehicles for collection of user fee. The draft notification proposes that the registration authorities 'shall not grant request' for depositing motor vehicle tax or recording transfer of ownership in certificate of registration if 'unpaid user fee' is reflected against the vehicle in question. The proposed change in rules also says that in case a vehicle crosses a tolling point after being electronically recorded but the toll charge is not paid, either because of the vehicle not having an affixed valid FASTag or on account of a pending challan, it will be reflected as unpaid user fee in the system. Officials said that vehicle owners would be allowed to avail the vehicle- and transport-related services only after they clear the toll dues. Earlier, NHAI had urged the road transport ministry to make changes in the Vahan system, which is the repository for all registered vehicles, to recover unpaid toll from vehicles with no FASTag or faulty/blacklisted tags.
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
NHAI mulls dropping Kumarichantha flyover amid protests; crucial meeting on July 25
1 2 3 4 T'puram: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) may shelve the proposed flyover at Kumarichantha Junction on NH-66 in the state capital due to mounting local opposition. A final decision is expected after a high-level meeting to be chaired by the general education minister V Sivankutty, who is also the local MLA, on July 25. T he project was proposed after dropping the plan for an underpass near Lulu Mall. Local residents and traders opposed NHAI's project design, which involves a three-pillar flyover with 20-metre gaps between pillars and the remainder supported by retaining walls which they felt would hurt the region's commercial activity. The local community demanded a five-pillar structure with 30 metres between the pillars. Following the protests, ongoing piling work for two of the pillars has been temporarily halted. "NHAI should construct the flyover as per people's wishes. Constructing a retaining wall will affect the commercial prospects of the region. Hence, the construction of pillars is a suitable solution," said MLA Antony Raju who represents the nearby Thiruvananthapuram constituency. NHAI officials are not convinced. A senior official said on condition of anonymity that going ahead with the project as per the revised demand would lead to significant cost escalations and engineering challenges. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo "We will inform the difficulty in constructing the pillar flyover due to the cost escalation in the upcoming meeting. If the govt puts forth any proposal, we will consider it. But if the govt insists on a five-pillar flyover, we may drop the project," the official said. According to NHAI, persistent local resistance could lead to the plan being permanently shelved, reverting the junction to its pre-project status. The authority maintains that it already compromised on the original design by dropping the underpass proposal and moving ahead with the flyover to ease traffic congestion and ensure better connectivity on the NH 66 corridor. The July 25 meeting will bring together representatives from the state govt, Public Works Department, local legislators and NHAI. The confusion over the flyover is the latest in the ongoing tensions between development and local interest, with residents calling for infrastructure that aligns with commercial realities and civic needs and the authorities struggling to balance feasibility and community's consensus of opinion. The contractor is Kochi-based Cherian Varkey Constructions Ltd.
India.com
6 hours ago
- Business
- India.com
How AI Saves NHAIs Rs 25,680 Crore And Resolved 155 Long-Pending Disputes
NHAI's New AI-powered Digital Platform: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released its second sustainability report, highlighting how the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly improved its operations. NHAI has launched an AI-powered digital platform called Data Lake 3.0, which compiles all project-related information in one place and helps in faster decision-making. This technology has made project management smarter and more transparent. AI Leads to Rs 25,680 Crore In Savings This digital transformation directly helped NHAI resolve 155 long-pending disputes. Settling these cases led to savings of approximately Rs 25,680 crore in public funds — a major achievement. The report also mentions that NHAI has not just embraced technology, but has also taken major steps for the safety and health of its employees. An Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Framework has been implemented at workplaces. Moreover, due to efforts to promote diversity and equality, not a single complaint of discrimination was reported in the past year. FASTag Impact Visible Nationwide According to the report, FASTag coverage in the country has now reached 98.5%. This has had a direct impact at toll plazas — long queues have reduced, vehicles pass through without stopping, resulting in fuel savings and reduced pollution. NHAI also stated that it now prioritizes sustainable policies like greenery, solar energy, and waste management in its construction activities. The aim is to ensure rapid development while minimizing environmental impact.
Time of India
10 hours ago
- Business
- Time of India
NHAI's sustainability push: Greenhouse gas emissions dip, even as highway construction picks up pace
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) took a step towards sustainable development, announcing that its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity has been reduced to 0.8 MTCO₂e per kilometre from 1.0 MTCO2e/km. This drop comes even as national highway construction rose by 20% in FY 2023–24, the agency said in its latest Sustainability Report. The comprehensive 2023–24 report outlines NHAI's approach to embedding environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles across its operations. A key highlight was the Authority's progress towards a circular economy. More than 631 lakh metric tonnes of recycled materials, including fly ash, plastic waste and reclaimed asphalt, were used in highway construction during the year. 'In addition to this, NHAI continued to undertake nationwide tree plantation drives along the national highways,' the report noted, cited by ET. In FY 2023-24, over 56 lakh saplings were planted, followed by 67.47 lakh in FY 2024–25, taking the total to over 4.69 crore trees since the launch of the Green Highways Policy in 2015. The initiative, NHAI said, has contributed to the creation of significant carbon sinks and improved environmental sustainability along key road corridors. NHAI also reported the development of 467 water bodies under the Amrit Sarovar Mission. These efforts have not only revived local water sources but also yielded nearly 2.4 crore cubic metres of soil for use in highway projects, resulting in estimated savings of around Rs 16,690 crore. Additionally, water use intensity dropped by 74% in water-stressed regions compared to previous years, ET quoted. On the human resources front, the Authority said 100% of its workforce, both direct employees and contract workers, are now covered under its Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) framework. The organisation also reported zero instances of workplace discrimination, underlining its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion. On the technology side, NHAI highlighted the implementation of 'Data Lake 3.0', an AI-enabled platform that has enhanced project oversight and helped resolve 155 conciliation claims, delivering estimated savings of Rs 25,680 crore. Meanwhile, FASTag usage reached 98.5% nationwide, easing congestion and reducing vehicle emissions at toll plazas. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
News18
19 hours ago
- General
- News18
'Dirt Road' Gets New Meaning: NHAI Used 63 MT Of Waste For National Highway Construction In 2023-24
Last Updated: A significant initiative by the NHAI includes the use of plastic waste in highway construction, particularly in urban areas generating high volumes of plastic waste In a major stride toward sustainable infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) repurposed over 63 million tonnes of waste in building national highways during 2023-24. The highway-building body on Tuesday released the second Sustainability Report 2023-24. The report details NHAI's robust framework for integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into every aspect of its operations. The Sustainability Report 2023-24 underlines the effectiveness of various efforts made by NHAI for environmental protection and energy conservation. As per the report, the NHAI successfully reduced its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Intensity from 1.0 MTCO2e/km to 0.8 MTCO2e/km, 'demonstrating a clear decoupling of construction growth from emissions". The reduction in GHG emissions was achieved despite a 20 per cent increase in highway construction in FY 2023-24, with 6,634 km built compared to 5,551 km in FY 2022-23. Also, the water use intensity of NHAI has reduced by 74% in water-stressed regions compared to FY2021-22. 'In FY 2023-24, NHAI utilised more than 631 lakh metric tonnes of recycled and reused materials, including fly-ash, plastic waste, and reclaimed asphalt, in National Highway construction. In addition to this, NHAI continued to undertake nationwide tree plantation drives along the National Highways. In FY 2023-24, NHAI planted over 56 lakh saplings," an official statement said. In 2024-25, the NHAI has already planted 67.47 lakh saplings, bringing the total tree plantation to over 4.69 crore since the implementation of the Green Highways (Plantation, Transplantation, Beautification and Maintenance) Policy 2015. Plastic Use in Roads As per the report, a significant initiative by the NHAI includes the use of plastic waste in highway construction, particularly in urban areas generating high volumes of plastic waste. The pilot projects in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and a stretch of NH-48 near Dhaula Kuan in Delhi have successfully incorporated plastic waste into surface courses. The Delhi-Meerut Expressway and Gurugram-Sohna Highway also feature sections constructed using this innovative approach. The NHAI said it used plastic waste through concessionaires and contractors. The efforts have significantly contributed to reducing environmental disruptions, with approximately seven tonnes of plastic waste eliminated for every kilometre of a four-lane highway constructed. Fly Ash and Pond Ash The combined use of fly ash and pond ash in construction has increased over the past three years, further demonstrating NHAI's commitment to sustainable practices. 'Through these initiatives, NHAI has successfully diverted 3,300 tonnes of non-hazardous waste from disposal within its own operations, reinforcing its dedication to circular economy principles," the report added. The NHAI has mandated the use of fly ash and pond ash in road and highway projects located within a 300-kilometre radius of coal-based thermal power plants, ensuring efficient utilisation of this by-product. 'NHAI has collaborated with regional suppliers for the procurement of the materials. Sourcing materials locally lowers transportation costs and delivery times, increases project efficiency, and contributes to overall goals. It also strengthens links with local businesses, which benefits the community's economy and promotes sustainable practice," the report added. Union minister Nitin Gadkari said that the second Sustainability Report from NHAI showcases the ministry's progress in integrating sustainability into every facet of operations—from environment-friendly construction practices and resource efficiency to biodiversity conservation, community development, and stakeholder engagement. 'With sustainability at the forefront, NHAI has adopted eco-friendly construction practices in infrastructure development, utilising recycled materials, inert waste from landfills, setting up solar power plants, creating surface water bodies, and implementing rainwater harvesting measures. Green technologies and comprehensive environmental management strategies have been integrated to address concerns related to biodiversity, wildlife, and local communities," he added. The NHAI operates as an autonomous organisation under the ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) and is responsible for the development, maintenance, and management of national highways. With a 'forward-thinking" approach, NHAI is designed to not only address current challenges but also to future-proof India's road infrastructure. By integrating sustainable practices and embracing technological advancements, NHAI is 'poised to lead the transformation of India's highway network into a safer, greener, and more inclusive network", the report added. About the Author Nivedita Singh Nivedita Singh is a data journalist and covers the Election Commission, Indian Railways and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. She has nearly seven years of experience in the news media. She tweets @ More Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : garbage highway recycling road waste view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: July 16, 2025, 07:30 IST News india 'Dirt Road' Gets New Meaning: NHAI Used 63 MT Of Waste For National Highway Construction In 2023-24 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
