PM Modi announces initiative for 1,000 modern resting facilities for truck drivers on highways

In a significant move aimed at enhancing the well-being of truck and cab drivers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new scheme to construct 1,000 modern resting facilities along national highways. Addressing the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024 in New Delhi, PM Modi emphasized the challenges faced by long-haul truck drivers and highlighted the importance of proper rest for alertness and accident prevention.

Under the first phase of the scheme, 1,000 modern buildings will be developed, equipped with essential facilities such as food services, clean drinking water, toilets, parking, and rest areas for drivers on all national highways. The initiative aligns with the government’s commitment to the ease of living policy, aiming to provide comfort and convenience to truck and taxi drivers.

PM Modi acknowledged the concerns of truck drivers and their families, emphasizing that the initiative will not only enhance the ease of living for drivers but also contribute to the ease of traveling. The scheme is expected to improve the overall health of drivers and play a role in preventing accidents, considering that sleep deprivation is a significant factor in road accidents.

According to a report by NITI Aayog, trucks handle 70% of India’s domestic freight demand, and the road freight travel is projected to increase significantly. The new resting facilities initiative addresses the need for proper sleep and rest for drivers, essential for maintaining alertness and ensuring road safety.

PM Modi also highlighted the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2024, bringing together the mobility and supply chain community on a single platform. He underscored the pivotal role of the mobility sector in the country’s development, emphasizing India’s fast-paced economic expansion and its emergence as the third-largest economy globally. The Prime Minister emphasized the rise of a neo-middle class and the growing income, predicting increased confidence and opportunities in the mobility sector.

Furthermore, PM Modi discussed the government’s initiatives to promote electric vehicles (EVs) and research and innovation in the mobility sector. He mentioned the allocation of ₹1 lakh crore in the budget for research and innovation, along with expanded tax exemptions for startups, creating new opportunities and addressing challenges in the EV industry, particularly related to costs and battery technology. The National Electric Mobility Mission aims to boost EV manufacturing, with substantial investments fostering the growth of the sector.