Why Did IRF Praise the Government for Installing QR Codes on Road Projects?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Transparency is significantly enhanced through QR codes.
- Public access to road project data is now a reality.
- Contractor accountability is enforced for up to 10 years.
- This initiative sets a benchmark for infrastructure management.
- It promotes a culture of responsibility in the construction sector.
New Delhi, Nov 3 (NationPress) The International Road Federation (IRF) commended the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways for its groundbreaking decision to incorporate QR codes into significant road projects.
This initiative is being hailed as a crucial advancement toward enhancing transparency, participatory governance, and monitoring the quality of construction.
In a letter addressed to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, the IRF expressed that, "This innovative step signifies a major achievement in the country’s pursuit of a more transparent, accountable, and technology-oriented infrastructure management framework."
The inclusion of QR codes will enable public access to vital information regarding road construction and maintenance, boost contractor accountability, and enhance the durability and safety of the national road network.
Minister Gadkari stated that all national highway projects in India will soon display QR codes that offer comprehensive project details, including information about contractors, consultants, and funding sources.
The IRF, in collaboration with Intercontinental Consultants and Technocrats Pvt. Ltd, praised the foresight shown in holding contractors responsible for road maintenance for a duration of up to 10 years, which will greatly contribute to fostering a culture of responsibility and excellence in the industry.
By aligning infrastructure with open data, India is making a significant leap toward accountable, citizen-focused governance—a model that could serve as a blueprint for similar reforms in other public sectors, the IRF noted.
In a related development, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) announced in October the deployment of project information signboards equipped with Quick Response (QR) Codes along National Highway routes to improve the commuting experience.
This initiative aims to provide pertinent project-specific information and emergency helpline numbers to travelers on National Highways.
Looking ahead, the NHAI anticipates generating ₹35,000-40,000 crore in FY26 if it efficiently monetizes the identified road assets.