Govt set to launch scheme to provide resting centres for long-haul truck drivers along NHs

 The resting places, located along petrol pumps and at wayside amenities (WSAs) being developed by highway agencies, will feature dormitories, self-laundry facilities, and cooking areas. All of these will be made available at very affordable prices.

The resting places will have dormitories with 10-50 beds with all facilities, including medical aid for drivers and helpers, said sources. Most of these facilities will come up adjacent to petrol pumps developed by oil marketing companies. Around 300 would be part of the WSAs being developed by the highway ministry. All these resting places are expected to be operational in the next 3-4 years.

TOI has learnt that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reviewed a detailed presentation on the plan prepared by the petroleum and road transport ministry, which has been prepared after a series of consultations at different levels, including the PMO. Non-availability of good and affordable resting facilities force long-haul drivers to sleep in truck cabins and cook their food sometimes along the road. Inadequate rest and fatigue have been major causes of road crashes on highways.
Earlier this year, while speaking at Bharat Mobility Global Expo, Modi had announced that work was going on the new scheme to develop modern buildings with facilities for food, clean drinking water, toilets, parking and rest for drivers along the NH network. “Drivers are a big part of the mobility sector, those who drive our trucks, taxis. They drive for long hours. They donʼt have time for rest. They are also victims of road accidents. We understand these concerns… This (establishing rest centres) will enable drivers to do ʻease of travellingʼ as well,” he had said.