The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a new initiative by introducing upgraded Route Patrolling Vehicles (RPVs), named ‘Rajmarg Saathi.’ These state-of-the-art vehicles are designed to monitor National Highway stretches, ensuring quick responses to emergencies and contributing to overall highway safety.
The newly introduced RPVs will be actively used for the inspection of highway stretches, aiming to respond promptly to incidents and ensure smooth traffic flow. As part of a larger government initiative, the upgraded RPVs will play a crucial role in minimizing traffic disruptions, improving safety standards, and enhancing the overall experience for road users. The ‘Rajmarg Saathi’ RPVs come with detailed specifications for vehicle usage, equipment, and staffing to ensure operational efficiency. NHAI has also outlined guidelines to maintain the fitness of these vehicles, stating that once a vehicle has either covered 300,000 kilometers or operated for three years, it will be replaced with a new one to maintain service quality. Emphasizing visibility, the RPVs are designed with prominent branding and an attention-grabbing exterior to ensure they are easily recognized as highway patrol vehicles. This is crucial to increasing their presence and ensuring a proactive approach to incident management.
Equipped with advanced communication tools and safety features, these vehicles are built to respond quickly to emergencies, improving road safety on the highways. Additionally, the RPVs are fitted with a closed cabinet that provides organized space for various tools and inventory that can be accessed swiftly during critical situations. One of the standout features of the new RPVs is their incorporation of AI-powered dashboard cameras, which use video analytics to capture and identify road conditions, including cracks, potholes, vehicles, pedestrians, and infrastructure assets like road signs. This data, collected weekly, will be integrated into NHAI’s ‘One’ application, providing a more efficient system for road maintenance and ensuring that any issues are addressed swiftly. NHAI has stated that these RPVs will play a vital role in maintaining the safety and functionality of national highways, helping to manage incidents and ensure a smoother, safer driving experience for millions of commuters. Through this innovative initiative, NHAI aims to continue its mission of enhancing road infrastructure and contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of India’s transport network.
