Supreme Court questions NHAI's inability to electronically track parked vehicles on highways

The apex court, in a recent hearing, directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to explain its inability to deploy electronic systems that monitor parked vehicles on national highways. The bench highlighted concerns over traffic congestion and safety hazards caused by unauthorized parking on fast‑moving lanes.

NHAI officials were asked to detail the technical and administrative challenges that have prevented the rollout of such tracking mechanisms. While the authority has previously introduced surveillance cameras and toll‑based monitoring, a comprehensive electronic solution for stationary vehicles remains absent.

Legal experts note that the court's intervention could accelerate the adoption of advanced traffic‑management technologies, aligning India’s highway infrastructure with global standards. The outcome may also influence future policy directives on road safety and smart transportation.

The matter is slated for further review, with the Supreme Court expecting a detailed response from NHAI within a stipulated timeframe.