Govt. launches Humsafar Policy to provide world-class amenities on NH

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways  Nitin Gadkari launched the Humsafar Policy in New Delhi on 7 October 2024. Nitin Gadkari launched the policy at a function in the presence of the Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Ajay Tamta, Chairman of National Highway Authority of India ( NHAI), Santosh Kumar Yadav and senior officers of the ministry and the NHAI.

Humsafar Policy 

The Humsafar Policy aims to enhance the convenience of travelling on National Highways and Expressways and accelerate the development of Wayside Amenities. 

• The policy aims to establish world-class facilities for the use of the National Highways and Expressways.
• The Policy provides a framework for service providers, such as Eateries, Fuel Stations, and Trauma Centres, along the National Highways and Expressways.
• The commuters will get standardised, well-maintained and hygienic facilities along the National Highways and the Expressways.
• Commuters will be able to find details of relevant service providers near their location instantly on the NHAI's ‘Rajmarg Yatra app.

Difference Between Highways and Expressways 

National Highways are under the central government, which connects important cities and major ports across the country.

Expressways are a better class of Highways, offering better surfaces, controlled access, and construction for fast-moving vehicles only. They can be owned by the central or state governments.

Unlike Highways, expressways are designed with minimum sharp curves so that vehicles can maintain high speeds. 

On the Highways, the emphasis is not on speed and provides for frequent entry and exit points for vehicles, as the emphasis is more on connectivity.

The Expressways have controlled entry and access points so as to ensure high speed.