Types of Roads & Highways in India

India’s road network plays a vital role in connecting people, places, and opportunities. With its rich cultural diversity and varied geography, the country relies heavily on roads, whether for daily commutes, trade, tourism, or long-distance travel. From major expressways to village roads, each type serves a specific purpose in supporting the nation's mobility.

Despite using these roads regularly, many people are unfamiliar with the different types and their classifications. Understanding this can help travellers plan more efficiently and stay informed about road safety. For those travelling across longer distances or multiple states, having a suitable travel insurance plan can provide financial protection in case of unexpected events.

In this post, we will examine the primary types of highways and roads in India and explore how this extensive infrastructure supports national development.

Network of Roads in India

India has a vast and expanding network of roads, spanning over 5.89 million kilometres. These roads help support everyday travel, tourism, trade, and access to remote areas. However, not all roads are the same. They vary based on their construction, location, and intended use. This is why understanding the classification of roads in India is important.

Classification of Roads in India

The classification of roads in India can be based on several factors, including the materials used, geographical location, volume of traffic, construction cost, and rigidity. Here’s how the roads are typically classified:

1. Based on Materials Used

• Gravel Roads: Common in rural areas and temporary roadways.
• Bituminous Roads: Most frequently used in cities due to their flexibility and affordability.
• Concrete Roads: Rigid and durable; ideal for long-term use in urban and highway construction.

2. Based on Location

This is one of the most commonly followed systems in India. The roads are divided into:

• National Highways
• State Highways
• District Roads
• Rural or Village Roads

Each type offers a different level of connectivity and usability.

3. Based on Traffic Volume

Traffic patterns significantly influence road classification:

• Low-Traffic Roads: Found mostly in rural areas.
• Medium-Traffic Roads: Typically seen in semi-urban areas.
• High-Traffic Roads: Urban city roads and highways that handle massive vehicle loads daily.

You also have specific tracks such as pedestrian walkways, motorable roads, and bicycle lanes, which are based on usage rather than vehicle type.

4. Based on Topography

India’s diverse terrain affects road design.

• Plains: Roads are mostly straight and levelled.
• Hilly Regions: Roads are spiral or curved due to elevation and slope. These roads demand higher maintenance due to landslides, weather impact, and road wear.

5. Based on Costs

Cost of construction plays a role in classification:

• High-Cost Roads: Concrete highways with lighting, signage, and drainage.
• Medium-Cost Roads: Bituminous roads in urban or semi-urban areas.
• Low-Cost Roads: Gravel or mud roads in rural regions.

6. Based on Rigidity

• Flexible Roads: Made using bitumen, these are cheaper but need regular maintenance.
• Rigid Roads: Constructed with cement concrete, they offer durability and require less upkeep.

Now that we understand how roads are classified, let’s look at the classification of highways in India.

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Classification of Highways in India

The Indian Road Congress (IRC) oversees the development and classification of highways. According to the IRC, the main types of highways in India include:

National Highways (NH)

National Highways are the backbone of India's road transport. These highways connect major cities, state capitals, ports, and international borders. They ensure the seamless movement of goods and passengers across the country.

Features:

• Maintained by central authorities.
• Marked as NH followed by a number (e.g., NH-48).
• Divided into single-lane, double-lane, four-lane, six-lane, and even eight-lane roads.

National Highways are critical for long-distance travel. If you’re planning a road trip through these highways, it’s wise to opt for travel insurance from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company. It covers mishaps such as accidents, medical emergencies, and vehicle-related delays, providing peace of mind while travelling.

State Highways (SH)

These highways connect major cities within a state and serve as links between district headquarters and National Highways. Managed by respective state governments, SH roads are identified by 'SH' followed by a code.

States like Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan boast the highest number of State Highways.

District Roads

These are further divided into:

• Major District Roads: Connect major towns and district headquarters.
• Minor District Roads: Provide local connectivity within smaller towns and villages.

District roads are integral for daily commuting and short-haul transportation of goods, offering essential last-mile connectivity.

Rural or Village Roads

Rural roads ensure access to and from villages and agricultural areas. Though not as well-maintained or broad, these roads are vital for local trade, healthcare access, and education. They also allow the movement of agricultural produce to local markets.

Importance of Roads & Highways in India

The value of a well-maintained and expansive road network cannot be overstated. Let’s understand its importance in shaping modern India:

1. Economic Development

Roads enable seamless logistics, allowing the movement of goods across cities and states. This lowers operational costs and improves efficiency for businesses, directly boosting the economy.

2. Better Connectivity

From metropolitan cities to remote Himalayan villages, roads bridge the geographical gaps. This helps integrate rural populations with the mainstream economy and improves access to essential services.

3. Travel & Tourism

India’s highways open up countless possibilities for tourism. With good roads and the protection of travel insurance, more people now feel secure travelling by car across different states. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company offers travel policies that are affordable and comprehensive, ideal for both business and leisure travellers.

4. Low Construction and Maintenance Cost

Compared to railways or airways, roads require lower capital investment and offer more flexible construction and expansion. They are also cost-effective in terms of daily operations.

5. Doorstep Services

Roads make home delivery services, daily commuting, and utility-based transportation possible. They also act as feeders to railways, ports, and airports.

6. Flexibility and Convenience

Unlike trains or flights, roads offer 24/7 access. You can choose your route, your departure time, and even your pitstops, making them perfect for spontaneous travel plans.

Also Read: What is Travel Insurance and its Types

Conclusion

With great connectivity comes responsibility. Road safety is paramount on all types of highways and types of roads in India. Traffic rules, vehicle maintenance, and driver awareness must be strictly followed to ensure safety.

Moreover, accidents and mishaps, though unfortunate, are a real possibility. Whether you’re travelling through busy urban roads or the scenic highways of Himachal, having the right motor insurance and travel insurance is essential. With Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, you can choose from a range of motor and travel plans that cover everything from third-party damage to personal accidents, hospitalisation, and roadside assistance.

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