NHAI Sets Strict 10-Minute Response Time for Ambulances on Highways

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has established a new policy requiring ambulances to arrive at accident sites within 10 minutes if located within a 10-kilometer radius. This initiative aims to improve emergency response times and reduce delays, with penalties for non-compliance. The guidelines also stipulate that victims must be transported to the nearest hospital within one hour. With around 3,000 ambulances and 1,000 patrol vehicles in operation, NHAI is enhancing its Incident Management System through GPS tracking and strict service-level benchmarks. Discover the full details of these new regulations and their implications for highway safety.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 14, 2026, 10:04 IST

New Guidelines for Ambulance Response Times

New Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a new policy mandating that ambulances on national highways must arrive at accident scenes within 10 minutes if they are within a 10-kilometer radius. This initiative aims to enhance emergency response times and reduce delays. If an ambulance fails to meet this requirement, a fine of Rs 10,000 will be imposed for each incident.

In its latest policy guidelines, NHAI emphasized that ambulances must transport accident victims to the nearest medical facility within one hour of ticket acceptance. To bolster the Incident Management System, the agency has established new protocols for the efficient dispatch of ambulances, cranes, and patrol vehicles.

According to the new regulations, ambulances must reach the scene of an incident within 10 minutes, with the time adjusted proportionally for incidents located beyond 10 kilometers. Compliance will be monitored through GPS data and the IMS Care Dashboard. NHAI operates approximately 3,000 ambulances and 1,000 patrol vehicles across 50,000 kilometers of highways.

Additionally, any rejection of emergency tickets by ambulances will incur a penalty of Rs 10,000. The agency also stated that all necessary equipment, medications, and personnel must be provided according to contract agreements, or a fine of Rs 10,000 will be levied. To ensure the effective execution of the NHAI Care System, AIS-140-compliant GPS devices have been installed in all operational units, including ambulances, cranes, and patrol vehicles.