The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched an advanced plan to monitor and maintain over 20,933 km of national highways across 23 states using Network Survey Vehicles (NSVs). This smart road maintenance initiative uses AI-based Data Lake technology to collect and analyse road condition data for safer and smoother travel. The project aims to improve highway management, ensure predictive maintenance, and enhance road safety through digital innovation. By combining artificial intelligence, sensors, and mapping tools, NHAI is setting a new standard for infrastructure development in India.
Key Highlights of the Topic
- Coverage: 20,933 km of national highways in 23 states.
- Technology Used: 3D lasers-for mapping road geometry, 360° cameras-for visual inspection of cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces, DGPS-for accurate location data, IMU-for motion and slope tracking, and DMI sensors- for precise distance measurement.
- Frequency: Twice a year for each project stretch.
- Data Handling and Management: Information to be uploaded will be analysed using NHAI’s AI-powered Data Lake.
- The NSV initiative will apply to all 2/4/6/8-lane highway projects.
Smarter Highway Maintenance Through Technology
NHAI's Network Survey Vehicles are equipped with 3D lasers, 360° cameras, DGPS, IMU, and DMI systems that can detect cracks, potholes, and surface damage automatically.
As these vehicles move along the highways, they capture detailed road data which is then uploaded to NHAI’s Ai-powered 'Data Lake'. This digital system analyses the data using Artificial Intelligence and helps engineers identify which road sections need immediate attention.
By using this system, NHAI can reduce inspection time, improve safety standards, and plan maintenance more efficiently.
What is 'Data Lake'?
A Data Lake is a central digital platform used by NHAI to store and analyse road condition data collected by Network Survey Vehicles (NSVs). It uses AI and data analytics to identify damaged stretches, plan maintenance, and improve highway management efficiently.
A Step Towards Predictive and Transparent Road Management
This initiative marks a shift from traditional manual inspections to data-driven and predictive maintenance. Instead of repairing roads only after visible damage, NHAI will now be able to detect and fix issues in advance using data insights.
The NSV project also introduces more transparency in highway management. Each surveyed section of road will have a digital health record, allowing NHAI to track performance and hold contractors accountable.
Regular six-month surveys will make it easier to maintain the quality of roads and provide smoother travel experiences for the public.
Conclusion
The deployment of Network Survey Vehicles across 20,933 km km of national highways is a forward-looking step by NHAI. It combines modern technology with better planning to create safer, more efficient, and long-lasting roads.
This initiative not only strengthens India’s infrastructure but also sets an example of how technology can be used to make governance smarter and more accountable.
Data verified with official NHAI and government reports.
🔎 Quick GK Facts about NHAI
- Full Form: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
- Established: 1995
- Parent Ministry: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
- Headquarters: Dwarka, New Delhi
- Key Legislation: Established under the NHAI Act, 1988 (came into effect in 1995)
- Current Chairperson (as of 2025): Santosh Kumar Yadav
- Main Objective: Development, maintenance, and management of National Highways across India.
- NHAI Motto: “Not just roads, building the nation.”
- Total Length of National Highways (as of 2025): Around 1.47 lakh km managed by NHAI.
- Key Projects Under NHAI:
- Bharatmala Pariyojana (Phase I and II).
- Golden Quadrilateral Project.
- North–South and East–West Corridors.
MCQs for Practice
Q1. How many kilometers of national highways will be surveyed by NHAI’s Network Survey Vehicles?
A. 15,000 km
B. 20,933 km
C. 25,000 km
D. 30,000 km
Correct Answer: B. 20,933 km
Q2. How often will the NHAI conduct road surveys using NSVs?
A. Once a year
B. Every six months
C. Every two years
D. Every quarter
Correct Answer: B. Every six months
Q3. NSVs are equipped with which key technologies?
A. 3D lasers and DGPS
B. Satellite cameras
C. Drone scanners
D. Manual imaging
Correct Answer: A. 3D lasers and DGPS
Q4. The NSV project covers how many Indian states?
A. 18
B. 20
C. 23
D. 25
Correct Answer: C. 23
Q5. The data collected by NSVs will be stored in which digital system?
A. Highway Grid
B. Data Lake
C. National Road Hub
D. AI Vault
Correct Answer: B. Data Lake