- NHAI–Jio partner to roll outIndia’s first telecom-based hazard alert system
- real-time warnings on mobiles to reduce accidents, improve driver awareness nationwide
NE NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, DEC 2
In a major step toward safer and smarter road travel, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed an MoU with Reliance Jio to deploy a telecom-based safety alert system across the National Highways network. The initiative will use Jio’s extensive 4G and 5G infrastructure to deliver real-time warnings directly to travellers’ mobile phones as they approach hazardous stretches.
Under this system, commuters will receive advance alerts—via SMS, WhatsApp messages and high-priority calls—when nearing accident-prone zones, stray cattle areas, fog-affected sections, emergency diversions or other critical spots. The alerts are designed to give road users sufficient time to slow down, change lanes or adjust driving behaviour, significantly reducing the likelihood of collisions.
The automated alert mechanism will function for all Jio users travelling on or near National Highways and will operate without the need for additional roadside equipment, relying instead on existing telecom towers. The system will be gradually integrated with NHAI’s digital platforms, including the Rajmargyatra app and the 1033 emergency helpline.
Calling it a transformative step for commuter safety, NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav said the initiative “marks an important step forward in providing timely and reliable information to commuters, enabling them to make informed decisions and adopt safer driving practices well in advance.”
Reliance Jio President Jyotindra Thacker said the collaboration leverages the telecom major’s nationwide reach to deliver safety alerts at scale, contributing to more informed and safer highway travel.
A pilot deployment will begin across select NHAI regional offices to fine-tune risk-zone identification and set alert thresholds. NHAI has clarified that the system will adhere fully to regulatory norms and data protection requirements. Similar partnerships will be explored with other telecom service providers to ensure wider coverage.
By combining digital infrastructure with proactive communication tools, NHAI aims to create a safer driving environment, reduce preventable accidents and set a new national benchmark for technology-enabled road safety management.
