V. Umashankar, Secretary at India's Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, has outlined plans to modernise the country's 64 lakh kilometre road network through AI based tolling, expanded EV charging infrastructure and high speed expressways. National Highways carry 52 per cent of road freight despite representing only 2.3 per cent of total road length, with current freight vehicle speeds averaging 35 to 40 kilometres per hour compared to 80 to 90 kilometres per hour in the USA. The initiatives form part of the government's Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, as detailed in an interview with Indian Masterminds.
Why it matters: National policy backing for EV charging networks along India's arterial highways signals procurement opportunities for charge point operators and equipment suppliers targeting freight and long distance corridors. Faster freight speeds and green highway mandates will shape tender specifications for roadside infrastructure over the next two decades.