NHAI Publishes Real-Time Data on Under-Bidding Projects

In a significant advancement toward institutional transparency and accountable infrastructure governance, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has commenced public disclosure of comprehensive information on national highway projects currently under the bidding process.

Through its Press Release dated November 17, 2025, NHAI confirmed the publication of detailed updates for 55 projects collectively covering approximately 2,269 kilometres and involving an estimated capital investment of over Rs. 1.19 lakh crore on its official portal. For the first time, bidders can access a consolidated dataset encompassing project scope, land acquisition status, and statutory clearances prior to bid submission, marking a substantive shift in the openness of the highway procurement ecosystem.

This move aligns with the Government of India’s broader objective of fostering open governance and reducing asymmetry in public procurement, particularly within high-value Public Private Partnerships (PPP) and Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) frameworks.

For the first time, bidders can access consolidated, project-specific details prior to the submission of bids. Key information published includes:

1. Project length, configuration, and scope
2. Mode of implementation (BOT, HAM, EPC)
3. Estimated capital cost
4. Status of land acquisition
5. Progress of statutory approvals and clearances (environment, forest, railways)

These disclosures will be updated every two weeks, ensuring stakeholders have continuous access to evolving project developments.

The public disclosure of real-time project data is expected to:

• improve risk assessment and realistic pricing by bidders;
• reduce instances of aggressive under-bidding driven by inadequate information;
• enhance credibility and transparency in procurement;
• minimise post-award disputes related to land availability or pending clearances;
• strengthen lender and investor confidence through accessible, verified project inputs.

By placing verified information in the public domain, NHAI aims to create a level playing field for all bidders and encourage data-driven decision-making. NHAI’s move to publish real-time project data marks a significant advance in transparency and accountability, creating a clearer, more competitive, and dispute-resistant procurement environment. As India rapidly expands its highway network, such openness will be essential for sustaining investor confidence and ensuring fair, credible project awards. Its success, however, will ultimately depend on consistent, accurate updates and prudent handling of sensitive information.