NHAI Takes Measures to Mitigate Heatwave Effect on Workforce involved in Construction and Maintenance of National Highways

**Executive Summary** On April 28, 2026, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) issued mandatory guidelines to protect the workforce and highway users from ongoing heatwave conditions. These measures, effective immediately, require contractors, concessionaires, and toll agencies to adjust working hours, provide cooling infrastructure, and enhance emergency response. NHAI field officials will conduct weekly inspections to ensure strict compliance with these safety protocols. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Work Scheduling and Management** * Staggered working hours are mandated for construction and maintenance to avoid peak heat between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. * Toll operations must minimize outdoor exposure for personnel between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM through rotational rosters. * Labour-intensive or heat-generating tasks, such as welding and asphalt laying, must be shifted to early morning or late evening. * Night hours are to be utilized for administrative and maintenance activities that do not require presence in toll lanes. * **Health and Safety Protocols** * Mandatory cooling breaks must be provided at regular intervals, with increased frequency during extreme heat alerts. * New or returning personnel must undergo a 3–5 day acclimatization period before starting strenuous tasks. * Workers and toll staff must be trained to identify and respond to heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke. * Construction workers are advised to wear breathable, cotton-based high-visibility vests. * **On-site Infrastructure and Supplies** * Temporary shaded and ventilated rest areas must be provided, along with uninterrupted access to cool potable drinking water. * First-aid stations, patrolling vehicles, and toll locations are required to stock Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and glucose. * Air-conditioned cooling rooms must be established in toll booths, office blocks, and rest areas. * Temporary sheds and awnings must be installed for personnel working near toll lanes or open areas. * **Emergency and Monitoring Services** * NHAI patrol ambulances must be equipped with ice packs, cold water, and IV fluids. * Route Patrolling Units (RPUs) are directed to increase monitoring frequency to assist commuters with heat issues or vehicle breakdowns. * Weekly inspections will be conducted by NHAI field officials across all project sites and toll plazas. **Impact Analysis** **Contractors and Concessionaires** **Impact** They are held responsible for the immediate implementation of safety protocols and the logistical restructuring of work shifts. **Action Required** Rearrange work schedules, provide necessary cooling infrastructure (sheds, AC rooms), supply ORS/glucose, and ensure staff receive heat-response training. **On-site Workforce and Toll Staff** **Impact** Employees gain protection from extreme weather through adjusted hours, better gear, and access to medical supplies. **Action Required** Follow staggered shift timings, utilize mandatory cooling breaks, and undergo the required 3–5 day acclimatization period when returning to work. **NHAI Field Officials** **Impact** These officials are tasked with increased oversight to maintain safety standards across jurisdiction. **Action Required** Perform mandatory weekly inspections at construction sites and toll plazas to ensure adherence to the heatwave guidelines. **National Highway Users** **Impact** Commuters benefit from enhanced safety monitoring and emergency support during transit in high temperatures. **Action Required** No specific action required, though they may receive assistance from RPUs or trained toll staff in case of heat-related emergencies or vehicle overheating.

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