Expressways May Allow 20% Speeding Margin Before Challans

144 kmph Speed Limit May Apply on 120 kmph Expressways

The government may allow vehicles to exceed expressway speed limits by up to 20% before issuing speeding challans. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has directed officials not to issue notices within this margin.

“Some people are receiving notices on the road due to speed. I have instructed that no notices should be sent for speeds up to 120 kmph,” Mr Gadkari was quoted as saying by PTI. “And even above 120, if someone exceeds it by 20 percent, let them go. If someone goes beyond this, issue a challan.”

He made these remarks at the Confederation of Indian Industry’s (CII) National Conference on Highways of India’s Future.

144 kmph Could Become the Challan Threshold

Under the proposed approach, vehicles could travel at up to 144 kmph on roads with a 120 kmph speed limit. Officials would issue speeding challans for speeds exceeding this threshold.

However, the proposal does not change the prescribed speed limits. Motorists must continue following posted limits until formal rules or notifications announce any changes.

Contractors Face Action Over Poor Highway Quality

Mr Gadkari warned contractors and consultants against poor highway construction and maintenance. Those responsible could face blacklisting, bans and financial penalties.

“Every pothole will be accounted for,” he said. He also asked people to share highway defects on social media. Such posts have helped officials identify problems on different highway stretches.

“Social media posts have been helpful in flagging quality issues on highway stretches, and I urge the public to post these problems on social media so that officials cannot hide them,” Mr Gadkari said.

Highway Quality Issues Reportedly Down 30%

The minister said his monitoring efforts had reduced highway quality issues by 30%. He also explained how authorities track road conditions.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the road transport ministry use Network Survey Vehicles. These vehicles record road defects, including potholes.

AI-Based Systems to Track Traffic Violations

Mr Gadkari also asked industry players to support artificial intelligence-based Advanced Traffic Management Systems (ATMS).

These systems are expected to improve highway monitoring and traffic enforcement. They will help identify violations such as improper lane use and failure to wear helmets or seatbelts.