In response to growing concerns about road accidents due to driver fatigue and drowsiness, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated steps to improve road infrastructure by planning the development of Wayside Amenities (WSA) along key highway stretches in Karnataka.
According to NHAI officials, the move is aimed at providing safe and convenient rest stops for motorists, especially long-distance drivers who often struggle to find suitable facilities during their journeys.
The project is being implemented through NHAI’s wholly-owned special purpose unit, National Highways Logistics Management Limited, which recently invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the development, operation and management of WSA on private land. These facilities are planned along strategic stretches of National Highway 48, including the Belagavi–Kolhapur, Tumakuru–Chitradurga and Chitradurga–Hubli corridors.
Improved commuting comfort
According to officials, the initiative is part of the wider vision of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to strengthen road infrastructure and increase the comfort and safety of travel. “The identified locations fall under the jurisdiction of the Bengaluru Regional Authority and have been selected based on traffic density, importance of logistics and need for better commuting convenience,” a senior NHAI official told The Hindu.
The proposed Wayside Amenities are expected to offer a range of facilities including petrol stations, dedicated rest areas, food courts, clean toilets, light and heavy vehicle parking and other essential services. Officials said integrating these facilities into one location would greatly improve accessibility for drivers and reduce the need to stop at multiple locations along the highway.
“This initiative is expected to promote public-private collaboration and accelerate the creation of world-class highway infrastructure,” the official added.
It helps road safety
Experts said the lack of proper rest stops is contributing to road accidents across the country. “Long hours of continuous driving can lead to fatigue, slower reaction times and impaired judgement, which increases the risk of accidents. Authorities should encourage drivers to take breaks by providing them with well-equipped rest stops at regular intervals to improve overall road safety,” traffic expert MN Srihari told The Hindu.
“Apart from safety, this initiative also increases economic activity along the transport corridors. Developing WSAs on private land through public-private partnerships is likely to create employment opportunities, support local businesses and create a more organized highway ecosystem,” added Mr. Srihari.
Motorway users welcomed the plan
Frequent highway users welcomed the move and highlighted the problems they currently face.
Jayakumar S., a senior citizen who recently traveled from Bengaluru to Chitradurga with his family, said the absence of proper rest stops makes the journey uncomfortable. “Sitting in the car for long hours was difficult. I wanted to get out and stretch, but it was not safe with overtaking vehicles. Even for basic needs, we had to rely on roadside restaurants. Many foreign countries have well-maintained motels and rest stops where families can rest comfortably. Such facilities on our highways would make travel much easier. But proper maintenance would be key,” he said.
Another frequent traveller, Vinay Sharma from RR Nagar, Bengaluru, pointed out the inconvenience caused by scattered facilities. “On most highways, gas stations, restaurants and toilets are located at different places. This forces drivers to make multiple stops, which is time-consuming and tiring. If all basic services are available at one place, it would be extremely convenient for drivers to refuel, rest and continue their journey without unnecessary delays,” he said.
Published – 07 May 2026 20:49 IST
