New Delhi, 23 October (H.S.): The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken another major step towards improving the travel experience of commuters using the country’s National Highways, with plans to upgrade public toilet facilities and designated parking areas at toll plazas.

According to the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, NHAI has issued comprehensive guidelines for the upgradation, maintenance and continuous monitoring of public toilets and designated parking areas at toll plazas. The initiative aims to provide highway users with clean, safe and modern amenities.

Under the guidelines, existing toilet facilities will first undergo technical assessments, followed by comprehensive repairs and maintenance. Improvements will cover flooring, plumbing, sanitary fittings, lighting, ventilation, drainage and signage. Cleaning schedules will be determined according to traffic volumes at individual toll plazas to ensure appropriate hygiene standards are maintained.

To enhance the safety and convenience of women travellers and families travelling at night, the guidelines provide for CCTV surveillance, adequate lighting and the installation of sanitary napkin vending machines. Special toilet facilities will also be developed for persons with disabilities and senior citizens, incorporating ramps, appropriately designed doorways and grab bars to ensure accessibility.

Parking areas at toll plazas will be upgraded with improved parking bays and modern drainage systems. In anticipation of future requirements, space will also be earmarked for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, supporting the growing adoption of electric mobility.

The guidelines also envisage the installation of smart sensors to monitor essential parameters, including water availability, odour, sewage levels, leakage and electricity supply. The system will generate immediate alerts in the event of a malfunction or water shortage, with the information integrated into NHAI’s central digital dashboard to facilitate prompt corrective action.

Highway users will be able to submit feedback and register complaints directly through QR codes available on the Rajmargyatra application or through touchscreens installed at toll plazas. The mechanism is intended to strengthen public participation and enable authorities to respond more effectively to service-related issues.

The guidelines further stipulate that the cleaning of septic tanks, soak pits and sewer lines must be carried out exclusively through mechanised methods. A structured monitoring framework has also been established, comprising daily supervision, weekly technical inspections, monthly reviews and quarterly audits to ensure consistent compliance with prescribed standards.

Agencies failing to meet the stipulated requirements will face substantial financial penalties, while negligence will invite stringent action. Through these measures, NHAI aims to strengthen hygiene, accessibility, safety and maintenance standards at toll plazas and provide a more comfortable experience for National Highway users.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar