NHAI to Revolutionize Infrastructure Management as InvIT-led Assets Get Professional O&M Overhaul

NHAI to Revolutionize Infrastructure Management as InvIT-led Assets Get Professional O&M Overhaul​

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a major strategic shift to institutionalize professional, technology-driven Operations and Maintenance (O&M) for its national highway assets. This move is being spearheaded by the National Highways Infra Trust (NHIT), an InvIT sponsored by NHAI, to ensure global standards in infrastructure management.

To achieve this, NHIT has engaged General Management Consultants (GMCs) to oversee the effective O&M of highways under its portfolio. The initial phase of this initiative will cover a significant 908 km stretch of National Highway assets.

Institutionalizing Technology-Driven Asset Management​

The primary objective of engaging GMCs is to enhance asset performance and improve operational efficiency across the NHIT portfolio. This framework aims to adopt the best global practices in managing operational National Highway assets while ensuring high-quality standards for road users.

NHIT, which was registered with SEBI in October 2020, currently manages a combined length of 2,653 km of National Highway assets. The inclusion of professional consultants marks a transition toward a more systematic and technology-led maintenance approach.

Strengthening the Oversight Framework via NHIPMPL​

The NHIT structure is supported by National Highways InvIT Project Managers Private Limited (NHIPMPL), which serves as the dedicated Project Manager. As a wholly owned subsidiary of NHAI, NHIPMPL is responsible for ensuring efficient O&M of assets either directly or through external consultants.

NHIPMPL ensures that all operations maintain robust reporting, disclosure, and certification standards in strict accordance with SEBI InvIT Regulations. The addition of GMCs will provide end-to-end professional asset management solutions to support these mandates.

Advanced Inspection Protocols and Operational Oversight​

The engaged GMCs will implement a rigorous inspection regime involving daily, weekly, and monthly assessments of National Highway assets. These evaluations will utilize a combination of visual inspections and modern equipment-based evaluation techniques to ensure structural integrity.

Based on these systematic assessments, the consultants will identify critical maintenance requirements, safety interventions, and defect rectification works. They are also tasked with overseeing capacity augmentation measures and other improvement initiatives designed to enhance comfort for road users.

Procurement, Compliance, and Toll Management Enhancements​

The scope of the GMC mandate extends beyond physical maintenance to include the management of specialized contractors and agencies. These consultants will supervise the execution of works and certify completed projects to ensure quality control across the network.

Furthermore, the GMCs will recommend measures to improve toll plaza operations and traffic management. They will also play a pivotal role in ensuring timely reporting and continuous compliance with the regulatory framework governing Infrastructure Investment Trusts.

Developing an Infrastructure Ecosystem for Investors​

NHAI is utilizing this initiative to build a dedicated ecosystem of professional O&M consultants with specialized expertise in National Highway asset management. This move is expected to generate new avenues for business, innovation, and employment within the country's infrastructure sector.

The strategy also includes plans to develop a robust network of specialized Operations and Maintenance contractors. By strengthening governance standards and operational efficiencies, NHAI aims to reinforce investor confidence and facilitate increased domestic and global investments in India's National Highway assets.