Punjab in 23-State AI Highway Scan Drive: Roads to Be Checked Every 6 Months for Instant Defect Detection

Chandigarh : The government has launched a major upgrade in highway maintenance by introducing an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based monitoring system that will scan national highways every six months. The initiative aims to improve road quality, detect defects at an early stage, and ensure faster maintenance response. As part of the zonal implementation plan, Punjab, Haryana, and Jammu & Kashmir have been grouped under the North Zone. In the first phase, around 10,000 kilometers of highways—mainly across northern states—are being covered, with survey work already underway in several regions.

Under the system, advanced laser scanning technology will be used to map road surfaces with high precision, capturing even minor damages. The collected data will be uploaded to a centralized platform of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), where AI tools will analyze it and flag areas requiring immediate repair.

Officials said the project will eventually cover nearly 20,000 kilometers of national highways across 23 states in a phased rollout. Specially designed survey vehicles will continuously scan roads without disrupting traffic, enabling smooth and real-time data collection.

The system will also introduce the International Roughness Index (IRI), an international standard for measuring road quality. Highways falling below prescribed benchmarks will have to undergo immediate repairs, and strict action may be taken against contractors who fail to comply.

With an estimated cost of around ₹4,000 crore, the project is expected to significantly improve road safety, reduce accidents, and enhance the overall travel experience. Experts say early detection of road damage will not only prevent major breakdowns but also reduce long-term maintenance costs and extend the lifespan of highway infrastructure.