Science TechnologyMonday, 23 March 2026·The Hindu
NHAI to deploy AI dashcam analytics across 40,000 km of highways for weekly defect audits
NHAI will use AI/ML-based dashcam analytics on about 40,000 km of highways for weekly and monthly road-condition audits.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In March 2026, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced AI-Powered Dashcam Analytics Services (DAS) for about 40,000 km of the national highway network, using Route Patrol Vehicles (RPVs) and AI/ML tools.
Key specifics
- Weekly audits will cover all designated stretches, making the system a regular O&M monitoring tool.
- At least 1 night survey per month will check road studs, pavement markings and highway lighting.
- The AI/ML models are trained to detect over 30 types of defects and anomalies.
- The system will track potholes, rutting, severe cracking, damaged lane markings and broken crash barriers.
- All AI-generated results will be integrated into the NHAI Data Lake across 5 strategic zones.
Exam lens
Science & technology plus infrastructure question, NHAI, AI/ML, 40,000 km, 30+ defects, 5 zones; TNPSC may ask which agency is using dashcam analytics for highway maintenance.