Humsafar Policy:
Aimed at providing wayside amenities along national highways, the Union Road Transport Minister recently launched ‘Humsafar Policy.
- Humsafar Policy is a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing facilities along India’s national highways.
- The policy seeks to improve the convenience, safety, and comfort of highway travelers by providing a wide range of services at key locations along the road network.
- Under this policy, rest stops equipped with essential amenities like clean washrooms, food courts, parking spaces, and first-aid services will be developed across major highways.
- Dedicated rooms for baby care, equipped with changing tables and other essentials, will be provided for families travelling with young children.
- It includes provisions for creating multi-utility spaces at regular intervals to cater to the diverse needs of travelers.
- These spaces will feature fuel stations, Electric Vehicle (EV) charging points, convenience stores, and other roadside services that are expected to reduce driver fatigue and improve overall road safety.
- Dormitories will be introduced at fuel stations to provide short-term accommodation for truck drivers, travellers, and those requiring a rest break during long-distance travel.
- Accessibility will be a key focus, with wheelchair provisions made available for differently-abled travellers.
- The initiative also aims to promote sustainability by incorporating green technologies, such as solar-powered facilities and EV infrastructure, contributing to India’s environmental goals.