In a groundbreaking announcement at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced a transformative scheme for the construction of 1,000 modern resting facilities on national highways. The initiative, designed to address the challenges faced by truck and cab drivers during long journeys, focuses on providing essential amenities and fostering road safety.
Under the first phase of this scheme, 1,000 contemporary facilities will be established, offering services such as food, clean drinking water, restrooms, parking, and designated rest areas for drivers across national highways. Aligned with the government’s commitment to the ease of living policy, the initiative aims to enhance the comfort and convenience of truck and taxi drivers, ultimately contributing to road safety.
Prime Minister Modi empathized with the concerns of truck drivers and their families, highlighting the multifaceted benefits of the initiative. Beyond improving the living conditions for drivers, the scheme is expected to play a crucial role in preventing accidents, recognizing the significant impact of sleep deprivation on road safety.
A report by NITI Aayog underscores the importance of trucks in handling 70% of India’s domestic freight demand, with a projected increase in road freight travel. The resting facilities initiative directly addresses the need for adequate sleep and rest, vital for maintaining driver alertness and ensuring overall road safety.
PM Modi also shed light on the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, positioning it as a unifying platform for the mobility and supply chain community. Stressing the pivotal role of the mobility sector in India’s development, he highlighted the nation’s rapid economic expansion and its ascent to the position of the third-largest global economy.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister detailed government initiatives promoting electric vehicles (EVs), research, and innovation in the mobility sector. The allocation of ₹1 lakh crore in the budget for research and innovation, along with expanded tax exemptions for startups, demonstrates a comprehensive approach to addressing challenges and creating opportunities in the EV industry, particularly in relation to costs and battery technology. The National Electric Mobility Mission stands as a testament to India’s commitment to fostering the growth of the EV sector.
