Recognising the vital contribution and the demanding challenges faced by long-distance truck drivers, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a unique and much-needed initiative: driver-centric Wayside Amenity Stations
File Photo.
The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, regarded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways as one of India’s most ambitious and eco-sensitive infrastructure projects, is steadily establishing itself as a benchmark for world-class, commuter-friendly expressways.
Recognising the vital contribution and the demanding challenges faced by long-distance truck drivers, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a unique and much-needed initiative: driver-centric Wayside Amenity Stations.
To date, approximately 21 such stations have been constructed along the expressway, with four already fully operational.
These stations are designed to offer not merely a place for rest, but also a profound sense of comfort and security to drivers who typically work for 12 to 14 hours daily, frequently navigating the highways throughout the night.
One notable operational facility, located near Dausa in Rajasthan, has been aptly named "Apna Ghar" (Our Home). Developed by NHAI and managed by Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), it truly lives up to its name by providing a home-like environment for drivers. Amenities include dedicated truck parking, CCTV-monitored premises for enhanced security, immaculate restrooms, spacious bathing areas, self-cooking kitchens, a traditional dhaba, and complimentary Wi-Fi — all accessible for a modest charge of just Rs 112 (inclusive of GST).
Meanwhile, when queried about the booking and management of these facilities, Radha Mohan, Business Manager at IOCL, explained, "Earlier we had Swagat outlets on highways that offered basic facilities like restrooms and food. Now, we have upgraded versions of those. We’re offering air conditioning, water coolers, washing machines, clean open bathing areas, clean restrooms, TVs, free Wi-Fi, and CCTV surveillance across the parking area with live monitoring at our station."
Mohan further added, "If a driver doesn’t want to cook, we also offer affordable meals. For under Rs 130, a complete meal is available at our dhaba. Any truck driver can come here and rest. We know that they travel long distances and suffer fatigue, which increases the risk of accidents. So the concept was to provide such facilities on highways where they can rest and refresh themselves safely."
Regarding the booking procedures, Radha Mohan elaborated, "Currently, we have 35 beds available here and the charges are Rs 112 including GST. Drivers can make bookings using the Apna Ghar app. If someone is unaware of the app, our petrol pump staff are trained to assist. Our managers stationed here also help drivers with the booking process. Once the app is downloaded and used, drivers have no issues making future bookings. On average, about 50–60 per cent of the beds are booked daily, meaning that a significant number of drivers are already using this facility every day."
Beyond these essential provisions, these Wayside Amenity Stations are comprehensively equipped with a wide array of convenient services aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience.
These include fuel pumps for swift refuelling, diverse restaurants and dhabas serving wholesome thalis and quick snacks, and EV charging stations to support the growing fleet of electric vehicles. Furthermore, there are dedicated parking bays for buses and trucks, comfortable motels for longer stays, and even play areas for children, catering to the needs of all highway users.
By integrating such comprehensive services under a single roof, NHAI’s initiative represents a significant stride towards creating safer highways, substantially reducing fatigue-related accidents, and ultimately enhancing the dignity and well-being of India’s often unsung highway warriors – its dedicated truck drivers.
(With inputs from ANI)
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