New Delhi: National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated a transition towards predictive asset management to strengthen the operations and maintenance of National Highways across the country.
The new approach marks a shift from conventional maintenance practices to a technology-driven framework that identifies infrastructure deterioration at an early stage. NHAI said the initiative would enable timely repairs and help maintain highways in optimal condition.
The first pillar of the strategy focuses on large-scale monitoring of highway assets. NHAI has deployed Network Survey Vehicles to collect pavement condition data, including roughness, cracking, rutting and structural distress. The authority is also using Drone Analytics Monitoring Systems to create digital inventories, monitor structures and identify encroachments.
In addition, Falling Weight Deflectometer testing is being used to assess pavement strength and detect weak sections before visible failures occur. NHAI has also begun introducing AI-powered Dashcam Analytics Services to automatically identify potholes, damaged crash barriers, faulty lighting and drainage issues.
Predictive asset management backed by integrated data systems
The second pillar involves creating a centralized asset intelligence ecosystem. Data gathered through survey vehicles, drones, dashcams and pavement testing systems will be integrated into a single platform.
NHAI said this unified system would provide a continuously updated digital view of highway asset conditions. It will also support multiple operational requirements and improve coordination across the maintenance network.
The third pillar focuses on predictive monitoring and risk-based decision-making. By analysing historical records and ongoing inspections, NHAI will identify vulnerable stretches early and prioritise maintenance before problems become severe.
The authority said standardized maintenance manuals, improved contracts and stronger ecosystem support would further enhance performance management. Through predictive asset management, NHAI aims to increase highway longevity, optimise maintenance expenditure and provide a world-class travel experience for road users.
