Scan for Accountability! Govt Rolls Out QR Codes & YouTube Channels to Track Highway Projects in Real Time

​

Key Highlights

• QR codes to show contractor and officer details.

• YouTube channels for highway project updates.

• Public feedback through video uploads.

• 25,000 km of highways to be upgraded under ₹2 lakh crore plan.

• Focus on sustainability and transparency in road construction.

In a major move toward transparency and accountability, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and all highway builders to create their own YouTube channels. These channels will regularly upload videos showcasing the progress of highway projects at various stages of construction.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also announced that QR code-enabled hoardings will be installed along national highways. These codes can be scanned by commuters to view detailed information about the contractor, consultant, and responsible government officers for that particular road stretch. The information will also include their names and contact details.

Gadkari emphasized, “Main kyu gaali khaun? The QR code will have information of the contractor, consultant, and officers who cleared the road. If a road is bad and people are complaining about it on social media, take it seriously. From A to Z in road construction, we need ownership, sincerity, and a positive approach. Roads must be good, and they must stay good.”

He added that if people are paying tolls, they deserve international-quality roads. “Weather or poor bitumen cannot be an excuse. If the surface is not comfortable, fix it — cost may increase, but comfort is non-negotiable,” he said.

Videos to Improve Transparency and Public Feedback

To further promote transparency, Road Transport Secretary V Umashankar has instructed NHAI to make these project videos publicly available for citizen viewing and feedback.

Speaking at a CII event, he noted that the ministry often gets updates and issue reports from videos shared by independent YouTubers. “Some comments also provide useful insights into problems. We are now working to include video uploading as part of the project contract documents,” Umashankar said.

Officials mentioned that builders already submit drone-shot videos during construction for internal reviews, so making them public will be an easy and effective step. The move aims to make highway projects open, transparent, and responsive to public feedback.

Expansion and Technology Upgrade

Gadkari also revealed that the ministry is working on a massive plan to upgrade 25,000 km of highways to four lanes under a ₹2 lakh crore project. This development will connect major ports and boost religious tourism and adventure travel.

To speed up work and enhance durability, the ministry is also making precast technology mandatory in highway construction. This shift will not only improve quality but also reduce project timelines significantly.

Balancing Development with the Environment

Highlighting the government’s commitment to eco-friendly development, Gadkari shared an example of how 8,500 trees were transplanted along the Dwarka Expressway instead of being cut down.

He stressed that sustainable infrastructure is the key to progress, as better roads will reduce logistics and fuel costs, helping both businesses and commuters.

Currently, about 80% of goods traffic in India moves by road, 18% uses other modes, and only 1% travels by air. With improved and efficient highways, logistics costs are expected to drop to single-digit levels, boosting the economy.

A Step Toward Safer and Smarter Roads

The ministry’s new initiative marks a transformative step toward making India’s highways more transparent, accountable, and citizen-centric.

By combining QR codes, video documentation, and public accessibility, this move ensures that officials, consultants, and contractors remain answerable for their work, while the public gains a clear, real-time view of highway progress.

Reaffirming the government’s vision, Nitin Gadkari concluded that the goal is to build safe, sustainable, and modern roads that drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life across the country.

Also Read: Intralogistics & Warehousing Expo 2025: Bengaluru to Host South India’s Biggest Supply Chain Event from November 6–8

CMV360 Says

The Road Ministry’s new initiative marks a major step toward making India’s highways more transparent and citizen-focused. With QR codes and project videos, the system ensures public access, accountability, and quality control. This move supports sustainable growth, reduces logistics costs, and encourages responsible infrastructure practices, ultimately aiming to deliver safe, smart, and world-class roads that improve connectivity, boost economic progress, and enhance everyday travel for all citizens.