To unlock the value of operational National Highway assets and expand Public-Private Partnership (PPP) participation in infrastructure development, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released its inaugural Asset Monetisation Strategy for the Road Sector. This comprehensive framework outlines a structured approach for capital mobilisation through Toll-Operate-Transfer (ToT), Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs), and securitisation models.

Through these mechanisms, NHAI has already raised over Rs 1.4 trillion (approximately USD 17 billion), covering more than 6,100 kilometres of national highways under the National Monetisation Pipeline.

The newly launched strategy is based on three key pillars: maximising the value of government-owned road assets, ensuring transparency and dissemination of investor-relevant information, and developing the market by deepening the investor base and encouraging stakeholder engagement.

Commenting on the release, NHAI Chairman Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav stated, “NHAI’s unique approach to asset monetisation not only promotes financial sustainability but also creates opportunities for the private sector, encourages the use of advanced technologies, and enhances the durability and quality of our road infrastructure. A successful implementation of this strategy will provide NHAI with a consistent stream of funding, thereby reducing dependence on conventional financial sources.”

Echoing this view, Shri N.R.V.V.M.K. Rajendra Kumar, Member Finance, NHAI, added, “This document serves as a strategic roadmap for optimising asset monetisation. It stresses the importance of structured asset identification and valuation processes, fostering greater transparency and investor confidence.”

The NHAI’s asset monetisation framework aligns with the Government of India’s broader objectives under the Asset Monetisation Plan for 2025–30, marking a significant shift towards sustainable and market-led infrastructure funding models.

As an early adopter of alternative financing methods, NHAI has played a vital role in unlocking the value of India’s national road network. The success of this strategy is expected to accelerate infrastructure development and reinforce the country’s highway ecosystem.

Image source:pragativadi.com