The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a pilot project to provide real-time safety alerts for the presence of stray cattle on national highways, marking a significant step toward enhancing road safety and reducing accidents caused by animal intrusions.
The pilot initiative leverages advanced technology, including artificial intelligence–based video analytics and sensor-enabled surveillance systems, to detect the movement of stray cattle near or on highway stretches. Once detected, instant alerts are generated and transmitted to highway patrol teams, control rooms, and other concerned agencies to enable swift response and removal of animals from the roadway.
In addition to alerting enforcement and maintenance teams, the system is designed to integrate with digital platforms such as variable message signboards and mobile-based applications, warning motorists in real time about potential hazards ahead. This proactive approach aims to prevent collisions, particularly during night hours and low-visibility conditions when such incidents are most frequent.
According to NHAI officials, stray cattle on highways remain a major safety concern, especially on high-speed corridors and access-controlled expressways. The pilot project is part of NHAI’s broader strategy to adopt technology-driven solutions for improving highway safety, traffic management, and incident response.
The initial phase of the pilot will be implemented on select high-risk stretches of national highways identified based on accident data and traffic density. Based on the outcomes, effectiveness, and feedback from stakeholders, the system may be scaled up across other vulnerable highway sections in the country.
The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s focus on reducing road accidents and fatalities through a combination of engineering improvements, enforcement, education, and the use of emerging technologies. By enabling early detection and rapid intervention, the real-time stray cattle alert system is expected to significantly lower the risk of accidents and improve overall commuter safety.
NHAI reaffirmed its commitment to making national highways safer and more reliable through continuous innovation, collaboration with technology partners, and data-driven decision-making, with the ultimate goal of providing a secure and seamless travel experience for all road users.