The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) detailed its extensive use of artificial intelligence (AI) in road construction and toll management at the Global Fintech Fest (GFF) on September 11. AI is integrated throughout the road-making cycle, including drone analytics for construction monitoring and AI-based scanning of vehicle number plates linked to FASTag toll payments, according to Vishal Chauhan, NHAI Member of Administration and Chairman and Managing Director of Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL).
Chauhan explained that drones are flown every three months over construction stretches to capture static photographs. AI then analyzes 52 parameters such as subgrade levels and work completion status. Additionally, AI reads vehicle number plates to identify FASTag-linked vehicles, achieving a 99% recognition rate, which significantly reduces toll leakage. These AI applications help monitor plantation progress and assist in pricing annual toll passes.
NHAI’s AI deployment reflects a broader trend of integrating technology into infrastructure management to improve efficiency and transparency. The use of AI for real-time monitoring and automated toll collection aligns with digital initiatives in India’s transport sector. This approach also supports the government’s goal of enhancing trade systems and infrastructure through intelligent technologies, as discussed during the panel moderated by NPCI Executive Director Nitin Mishra.
The next phase for NHAI involves further refining AI capabilities to enhance toll pricing models and expand monitoring parameters. The authority’s ongoing AI integration was highlighted at GFF 2026, underscoring its commitment to leveraging technology in national highway projects.