The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Reliance Jio to deploy a telecom-based safety alert system across the National Highway network.
Using Jio’s 4G and 5G network, travellers will receive advance warnings on their mobile phones as they approach accident-prone stretches, stray-cattle zones, fog-affected areas, and emergency diversions. Moreover, alerts will reach commuters through SMS, WhatsApp, and high-priority calls.
In addition, the system will integrate in phases with NHAI’s digital platforms, including the ‘Rajmargyatra’ mobile app and the emergency helpline number 1033.
The automated system will cover all Jio mobile users on or near National Highways, providing early warnings before they enter hazardous zones. Since the solution relies on existing telecom towers, NHAI and Jio can deploy it quickly without installing additional roadside hardware.
This strategic partnership leverages Jio’s digital infrastructure, which already serves over 500 million subscribers nationwide.
NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav emphasised, “This 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 added, “The initiative uses the reach of Jio’s telecom network to deliver safety alerts at scale, contributing to safer and more informed highway travel.”
Consequently, the initial pilot deployment will support risk-zone identification and alert thresholds under select NHAI regional offices. The initiative will comply with all regulatory and data-protection requirements.
Furthermore, NHAI plans to extend similar collaborations with other telecom service providers to ensure broader coverage and enhanced commuter safety.
By combining robust digital infrastructure with real-time communication tools, NHAI aims to significantly reduce preventable road incidents and strengthen commuter awareness. The authority reaffirmed its commitment to adopt innovative, scalable solutions for safer, smarter, and more efficient highway travel across India.
