NHAI to direct wayside amenities lessees to prioritise establishment of vehicle repair shops on NHs

State-owned NHAI on Monday said it has directed its field offices to ask wayside amenities (WSAs) lessees to prioritise setting up vehicle repair shops and puncture repair facilities along National highways and expressways at the earliest to enhance ease of commuting.

NHAI, in a statement, said it has been observed that a larger number of vehicles and puncture repair services are required on several National Highways and expressways to enable highway users to access mechanical assistance during breakdowns and emergencies, avoiding inconvenience, delays, and potential safety concerns.

National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) is developing a network of modern wayside amenities on a long-term lease basis under the public-private partnership (PPP) model, it added.

Under the existing lease agreements executed with concessionaires and lessees, a range of permissible facilities can be developed in addition to the mandatory amenities prescribed for each WSA.

Vehicle repair Shops and puncture repair facilities are among the approved permissible facilities under the contractual framework.

These WSAs are envisioned as integrated service hubs that provide essential amenities to commuters and commercial vehicle operators on National highways and expressways.

The statement said the development of such facilities will complement the broader objective of creating world-class National Highway infrastructure and delivering seamless mobility services to National Highway users.