NHAI installs QR code information boards in Bengaluru highway; Netizens say, 'Contractor details missing'

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has begun installing QR code-based information boards along key national highway corridors in Bengaluru to improve transparency and ease of travel for commuters.

The QR boards are currently available on the Bengaluru–Nelamangala stretch of NH-48 and the Bengaluru–Kolar–Mulbagal stretch of NH-75.

In a post on X, NHAI said the initiative aims to “enhance transparency and improve ease of travel for National Highway users”.

According to the authority, commuters can scan the QR code to access essential details about the highway stretch, nearby toll plazas and wayside amenities. The portal linked to the QR codes also provides emergency contact information, including details of highway patrol teams, engineers, police stations, hospitals and the National Highway helpline.

“This initiative reflects NHAI’s continued efforts to leverage technology for a safer, more informed, and seamless travel experience on National Highways,” the authority said.

To enhance transparency and improve ease of travel for National Highway users, NHAI is installing QR code-based information boards on key National Highway corridors in #Bengaluru. These QR boards are currently available on Bengaluru–Nelamangala section of NH-48 and… pic.twitter.com/jzgAfGQwnj

— NHAI (@NHAI_Official) December 15, 2025

Netizens reaction

However, several users on social media have questioned the scope of information currently available through the QR codes, arguing that it falls short of earlier assurances made by Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari.

A community note on X said the portal does not display “useful information required for transparency”.

“This isn’t the transparency that was promised by Nitin Gadkari, as the portal doesn’t show the name of the MLA, contractor, project cost and other key project details,” the note said.

Several users also pointed out that Gadkari had earlier directed the installation of QR codes on all national highway projects to enable citizens to access real-time project information and contact details of those responsible for each road stretch.

“Why should I alone get blamed? The QR code will display who the contractor, consultant, and officials are,” Gadkari had said at the time, adding that the system would decentralise accountability and encourage better performance on highway projects.