NHAI Releases Guidelines for Upgradation, Maintenance and Smart Monitoring of Toilets and Parking at Toll Plazas

Key facts

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued guidelines for the upgradation, maintenance and smart monitoring of public toilet facilities and designated parking areas at National Highway toll plazas.
• Existing toilet facilities will undergo technical assessment before rehabilitation, with upgradation covering flooring, plumbing, sanitary fittings, lighting, ventilation, drainage and signage; housekeeping and cleaning schedules will be based on toilet block size and traffic levels.
• Safety measures include proper lighting, CCTV surveillance of approaches and parking areas, sanitary napkin vending machines, visible information signs, and at least one universally accessible toilet unit with barrier-free access, suitable doorways and grab bars for people with disabilities at each covered toll plaza.
• Parking areas will be improved through designated parking bays and proper drainage, with provisions for future electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
• Technology-based monitoring will track water availability, odour, sewage levels, leakages, electricity supply and toilet occupancy, with alerts for issues like water shortages, sewage overflow and equipment failures.
• Smart monitoring data will be integrated with NHAI's central digital platform for tracking facility conditions, maintenance, complaints and agency performance, while users can share feedback through QR codes linked to the Rajmargyatra app and touchscreens at toilet facilities.
• Cleaning and desludging of septic tanks, soak pits and sewer lines must use completely mechanised methods, and manual entry into septic tanks, manholes and sewer lines is strictly prohibited.
• A structured inspection framework comprises daily supervision, weekly technical inspections, monthly joint reviews, quarterly audits and annual third-party assessments, with performance assessed through physical inspections, monitoring data and verified citizen feedback.
• The guidelines set clear deadlines for fixing problems and financial penalties for poor maintenance, and agencies that repeatedly fail to meet standards may face strict action.