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The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and highway developers to launch dedicated YouTube channels for regular project video uploads and to seek public feedback. The initiative aims to improve transparency and accountability by integrating video uploads into project contracts. Officials clarified that builders already submit drone videos, which can now be made public. Additionally, QR-coded hoardings with contractor and officer details will be installed on highways to help citizens identify responsible parties for maintenance and complaints.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and all highway developers to create their own YouTube channels and post video updates of ongoing projects. This move is intended to make project monitoring more transparent and to encourage citizen participation. The decision was announced by Road Transport Secretary V Umashankar during a recent industry event, where he highlighted that several issues concerning highway construction had previously come to light through videos posted by independent YouTubers. Advertisement
Umashankar stated that many of these independent uploads often reveal ground-level problems and provide useful feedback from citizens. Based on this, the ministry is now considering making the uploading of such videos a formal clause in project contract documents. The goal is to allow citizens to access visual progress updates directly and share constructive feedback that can help improve project execution.
Officials familiar with the matter mentioned that since contractors already submit drone-shot videos during construction, making these publicly available will be a simple transition. These videos will serve as a transparent record of project milestones and timelines. Once implemented, both the NHAI and private developers will be required to maintain regular uploads reflecting the progress and condition of national highways under construction or repair.
At the same event, Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari announced another initiative to strengthen accountability. He directed that QR-coded hoardings be placed along national highways. These will allow commuters to scan the code and obtain details about the contractor and the responsible government official, including contact information. Gadkari added that complaints shared on social media regarding poor road conditions should be taken seriously and followed up promptly. He emphasized the need for greater ownership and sincerity from all parties involved in road construction, stating that roads must be maintained properly and that clear signboards should indicate who is accountable for each stretch.
The ministry's latest steps are part of its broader effort to make the highway development process more transparent and citizen-focused. By integrating public communication into project management, the initiative aims to promote proactive issue resolution, improve quality standards, and ensure better maintenance across national highways.
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