The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Reliance Jio to deploy a telecom-based safety alert system across the National Highway network. The system will use Jio’s 4G and 5G network to send advance warnings to travellers as they approach identified risk locations, including accident-prone stretches, stray-cattle zones, fog-affected areas, and emergency diversions.
The alerts will be delivered through SMS, WhatsApp, and high-priority calls to National Highway users. The system will be integrated in phases with NHAI’s digital platforms, including the Rajmargyatra mobile application and emergency helpline number 1033.
The automated system will function for all Jio mobile users on or near National Highways, providing early warnings before they enter hazardous zones. The solution will use existing telecom towers and can be deployed without additional roadside hardware. The partnership leverages Jio’s digital infrastructure, which serves over 500 million subscribers in India.
NHAI Chairman Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav said, “This initiative marks an important step forward in providing timely and reliable information to commuters, enabling them to make informed decisions and adopt safer driving practices well in advance. I am sure that this initiative will set a new benchmark in technology-enabled road safety management on National Highway.”
Jyotindra Thacker, President, Reliance Jio, stated that the initiative uses the reach of Jio’s telecom network to deliver timely safety alerts at scale, contributing to safer and more informed National Highway travel.
The initial pilot deployment will support risk-zone identification and alert thresholds under select NHAI regional offices. The initiative will comply with all applicable regulatory provisions and data-protection requirements.
NHAI plans to undertake similar exercises with other telecom service providers. The authority aims to enhance commuter awareness and reduce preventable road incidents through the combination of digital infrastructure and real-time communication tools.