The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is setting up a dedicated cell for effective implementation of asset monetisation strategies. Outside experts with experience in asset monetisation will also be roped in.
The cell will formulate the strategy document for NHAI’s asset monetisation, identify projects, formulate Public Infrastructure Investment Trust (InVIT) and build capacity within the organisation for asset monetisation, according to a policy circular.
The cell will also engage with the stakeholders like investors, financial institutions and government bodies to facilitate the monetisation process.
At present, the monetisation of NHAI assets is being managed by the officials of the organisation. For monetisation through the InVIT route, the NHAI has sponsored National Highways Infra Trust (NHIT).
For monetisation through toll operate transfer (TOT) and InVIT, the NHAI has identified 33 highway stretches with a total length of 2741 km across the country for in 2024-25. While 12 highway stretches are being offered to NHIT, the rest will be monetised through the TOT mode. NHAI is planning to invite bids for 12 bundles of TOT. The monetisation target for this year is Rs 54,000 crore.
Under the National Monetisation Pipeline, the road sector monetisation was expected to account for Rs 1.6 trillion or 27% of total monetisation during FY22-FY25.
Since 2018-19, when the highway monetisation programme began, NHAI has raised Rs 1.08 crore through recycling of assets.