The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, July 29:
The NHAI Highway Encroachment Drive has gained momentum across India as authorities take strict action against illegal structures, unauthorised access points, and roadside occupations along National Highways. The initiative aims to improve road safety, ensure smoother traffic movement, and protect critical highway infrastructure.
National Highways serve as India’s primary transport network, supporting the movement of passengers and freight across the country. However, illegal constructions, roadside commercial activities, temporary structures, and unauthorised access points have increasingly become a challenge, creating safety risks for motorists and disrupting the smooth functioning of highway corridors.
According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), such encroachments often reduce road width, block visibility, damage drainage systems, and lead to unsafe entry and exit points. These factors contribute to accidents by forcing sudden lane changes, increasing driver distraction, and limiting emergency response during critical situations.
As part of the ongoing enforcement drive, NHAI’s Project Implementation Unit (PIU) in Rajkot has carried out a comprehensive survey covering nearly 693 kilometres of National Highways under its jurisdiction. During the inspection, authorities identified 1,403 instances of unauthorised structures, illegal commercial access points, and unapproved median openings that posed significant risks to road users.
Officials said that action has already been taken against a large number of violations, with more than 361 illegal access points and encroachments removed. In addition, 150 unauthorised median cuts have been permanently sealed to prevent unsafe vehicle crossings on high-speed stretches.
The operation has been conducted with the support of district administrations and local police authorities to ensure effective implementation and maintain law and order during the removal process.
Major anti-encroachment drives have also been undertaken along the Somnath–Dwarka National Highway, including areas around Bardiya and the stretch between Honest Hotel and Hathi Chowk, where numerous illegal occupations were cleared.
Authorities emphasised that the campaign is focused on preventing road accidents rather than simply removing encroachments. Restoring the designated Right of Way improves visibility for drivers, enhances traffic flow, facilitates emergency services, and preserves space for future highway expansion projects.
The Ministry reaffirmed that regular anti-encroachment operations will continue across the country to ensure National Highways remain safe, accessible, and capable of supporting India’s growing transportation needs.
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