The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Reliance Jio to introduce a telecom-driven safety alert system aimed at improving road safety and enhancing the travel experience on National Highways. The initiative will use Jio’s existing 4G and 5G network to send advance warnings to commuters approaching identified risk zones such as accident-prone stretches, fog-hit areas, stray cattle zones and emergency diversions.
Under the new system, highway users will receive alerts through SMS, WhatsApp messages and high-priority automated calls, enabling them to adjust their speed and driving behaviour before entering hazardous locations. The alerts will be integrated in phases with NHAI’s digital platforms, including the ‘Rajmargyatra’ mobile app and the national highway emergency helpline number 1033.
The solution will function automatically for all Jio subscribers travelling on or near National Highways. Since the system relies on existing telecom towers, it can be deployed quickly without the need for additional roadside equipment. Jio’s extensive digital footprint—serving over 500 million users—will allow safety messages to be delivered at a national scale.
Welcoming the initiative, NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav said it represents a major step in ensuring timely and reliable information for commuters, helping them adopt safe driving practices well in advance. Reliance Jio President Jyotindra Thacker noted that the project leverages the company’s telecom reach to deliver critical alerts that can contribute to safer highway mobility.
The pilot phase will begin under selected NHAI regional offices to fine-tune risk-zone identification and alert mechanisms. The system will operate in compliance with regulatory norms and data-protection requirements.
NHAI has clarified that similar collaborations will also be explored with other telecom operators. With the help of real-time communication and strong digital infrastructure, the initiative is expected to boost commuter awareness and reduce preventable road accidents, supporting the authority’s broader vision of safer and smarter National Highways across India.
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