NATIONAL: India’s Highways Surge to Global Heights
India’s national highways have grown dramatically over the past 11 years. The total length reached 146,560 kilometers by the end of 2025. This marks a 61 percent increase from the 91,287 kilometers recorded in 2014.
Second-Largest Road System Worldwide
The country now boasts the second-largest national highway network globally, trailing only the United States.
This achievement stems from focused government efforts in road building. It supports better connectivity across vast regions and boosts economic activity.
Key Driver Bharatmala Pariyojana
The Bharatmala Pariyojana has played a central role in reshaping India’s highways.
Access-controlled high-speed corridors and expressways expanded from 93 kilometers in 2014 to 3,052 kilometers by late 2025. Such developments cut travel times and improve freight movement efficiency.
Four-Lane Highways Boom
Four-lane and multi-lane highways have seen substantial gains as well. Their length more than doubled from around 18,000 kilometers to 43,512 kilometers. These upgrades ease congestion on busy routes and enhance overall road safety.
Ambitious Future Pipeline
The government has outlined major plans ahead. Projects worth Rs. 8.3 lakh crore are slated for the next three years. This includes new corridors and upgrades to sustain momentum in infrastructure growth.
Enhanced Road Safety Measures
Safety has received strong attention in recent years. The Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Scheme, notified in 2025, offers up to Rs. 1.5 lakh in free medical care per victim. It applies at designated hospitals for up to seven days post-accident.
Support for Helpers
The reward for Good Samaritans who assist accident victims has risen significantly. It increased from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 25,000 to encourage prompt help during emergencies. This change aims to save more lives in the critical first hour after crashes.
Innovative Financing Steps
A public Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) is set to launch in early 2026. It will draw private funds into the transportation sector. Such moves help recycle capital from existing assets for fresh projects.
Adoption of Modern Tech
The sector embraces cutting-edge solutions for better efficiency. Hydrogen truck trials test cleaner transport options. FASTag-based tolling has streamlined payments and reduced wait times at plazas nationwide.
Broader Impact on Society
These changes touch everyday lives in meaningful ways. Faster travel opens new job opportunities and market access. Families feel safer on roads, while businesses gain from reliable logistics.