The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has started installing QR code–based information boards along key highway stretches in and around Bengaluru, aiming to make highway travel more transparent and commuter-friendly. The initiative has been rolled out on some of the city’s busiest national highway corridors, including the Bengaluru–Nelamangala stretch of NH-48 and the Bengaluru–Kolar–Mulbagal section of NH-75.
According to officials, the move is part of NHAI’s larger effort to use digital tools to improve safety, access to information and emergency response on India’s highway network. By simply scanning the QR code using a smartphone, motorists can quickly access essential highway-related details without the need for physical help desks or lengthy helpline calls.
What Information Do the QR Codes Provide
The QR code boards are designed to offer travellers easy access to important information such as toll plaza locations, nearby amenities, emergency contact numbers, and details of highway patrol teams. Users can also find contacts for engineers, police stations, hospitals and national highway helplines, which can be critical during breakdowns, accidents or medical emergencies.
NHAI has stated that these boards have been placed at strategic points along the highway so that travellers can access information when required, especially during long journeys. The authority believes that the availability of verified and centralised information through a digital interface can significantly reduce confusion and response time during emergencies.
Netizens Question Missing Contractor Details
While the initiative has been welcomed by many commuters, it has also triggered criticism on social media platforms. Several users who scanned the QR codes pointed out that the information available is limited and does not include details about contractors, project costs or executing agencies.
Many netizens recalled earlier statements suggesting that QR codes on highways would bring greater transparency by displaying contractor names, timelines and accountability details. The absence of such information has led to questions about whether the initiative is delivering on its original promise of public transparency or is limited to basic commuter support.
Some users also expressed concerns over the practicality of scanning QR codes on busy highway stretches, noting that vehicles may need to slow down or stop, which could impact traffic flow and safety. Others suggested that the system would be more effective if the information could be accessed through a central app or pre-downloaded portal.
NHAI’s Push for Digital Highways
Despite the criticism, experts believe the QR code boards mark an important step towards digitising India’s highway infrastructure. Over the past few years, NHAI has increasingly focused on technology-driven solutions, including FASTag, intelligent traffic systems and digital monitoring of road assets.
The QR code initiative is expected to evolve over time, with scope for adding more data, real-time updates and grievance redressal mechanisms. Public feedback, especially from frequent highway users, may play a key role in shaping the next phase of implementation.
What This Means for Commuters
For daily commuters and long-distance travellers around Bengaluru, the QR code boards offer a new way to access reliable information quickly. While the current version may not meet all expectations, it highlights a shift towards smarter highways where information is easily available.
As NHAI continues to refine the system, travellers will be watching closely to see whether the authority expands the scope of information to include project transparency and accountability, making the initiative truly comprehensive.