NHAI Introduces New Rating System for Highways
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a new rating system aimed at improving accountability and assessing the quality of construction and maintenance of national highways. This initiative is part of NHAI’s ongoing efforts to enhance the performance of concessionaires involved in highway development. The new system will provide a structured approach to evaluate the work of these contractors, ensuring that they meet the required standards for safety and quality.
Comprehensive Rating Methodology
NHAI has developed a detailed methodology for rating concessionaires. This system will evaluate their performance every six months. The ratings will be publicly available on the NHAI website and its social media platforms. This transparency aims to foster accountability among contractors and improve the overall quality of highway maintenance.
The assessment will focus on two main criteria: the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) and defect rectification compliance. The PCI will carry an 80% weightage in the overall rating, while compliance with defect rectification on the NHAI One App will account for the remaining 20%. This dual approach ensures that both the physical condition of the highways and the responsiveness of the concessionaires to reported issues are taken into account.
Understanding the Pavement Condition Index (PCI)
The Pavement Condition Index is a scientific metric that ranges from 0 to 100. It reflects the condition of the pavement, categorizing it from ‘Excellent’ to ‘Failed’ based on the guidelines set forth in IRC 82:2023. The PCI is calculated using six functional parameters: roughness, potholes, cracking, ravelling, rut depth, and patchwork.
To gather accurate data for the PCI, NHAI employs advanced technology. Laser Crack Measurement Systems and Network Survey Vehicles (NSV) are used to survey the highways. This data is processed by centrally deployed agencies under the supervision of a dedicated NHAI team. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, NHAI aims to ensure that the ratings reflect the true condition of the highways.
Consequences of Low Ratings
The new rating system has significant implications for concessionaires. Contractors who score below 70 out of 100 will be classified as ‘non-performers.’ This designation will render them ineligible to secure new National Highway projects until they improve their ratings. This policy is designed to encourage contractors to maintain high standards in their work.
The assessment will occur at two levels: individual project level and overall concessionaire level. Each rating will be reviewed every six months, coinciding with the NSV survey cycles. The data collected on defect rectification compliance through the NHAI One App will also contribute to the overall rating. This comprehensive evaluation process aims to ensure that only the most competent contractors are entrusted with the maintenance and development of national highways.
Aiming for Higher Standards
By implementing this transparent framework for evaluating concessionaires, NHAI seeks to establish new benchmarks in the quality of construction and management of national highways. The ultimate goal is to provide a safer, smoother, and more seamless travel experience for users of these vital roadways. This initiative reflects NHAI’s commitment to enhancing the infrastructure of the country and ensuring that it meets the needs of its citizens.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.
Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn