Large potholes, damaged patches, broken dividers and poorly designed speed breakers have become a regular feature along the route. Frequent accidents are being reported, particularly during night hours and the monsoon season. The highway is maintained by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) through a toll-operating agency, IVRCL, which commuters allege has failed to carry out timely repairs.
The situation has worsened due to the prolonged closure of a stretch at Machliya Ghat, a ₹200-crore project that developed structural issues following water leakage and road subsidence. The closure has led to traffic congestion and forced detours, adding to travel time and accident risk.
In 2024, NHAI floated a ₹100-crore tender for repairs to be carried out at the toll operator’s expense. However, patchwork completed last year has already worn out, raising concerns over quality and supervision.
Adding to commuter resentment is the high toll burden. Vehicles travelling from Indore to Ahmedabad pay toll at three plazas—Methwada, Dattigaon and Machliya Ghat—amounting to ₹355 for just 155 km, almost equal to toll charges on longer routes in the region.
Concerns have also been raised over new infrastructure projects. Seven underpasses planned across Dhar and Indore districts had an initial DPR cost of ₹160 crore, but contracts were awarded for ₹103 crore, prompting apprehension about construction standards.
RTI activist Rajendra Singh has formally complained to the Union ministry, flagging unsafe U-turns, substandard rumble strips and the disappearance of divider plantation.
Responding to the criticism, NHAI Project Director Praveen Yadav said repair work would resume shortly, Machliya Ghat reconstruction was nearing completion, and underpasses were targeted for completion by 2027. However, for daily commuters, relief remains uncertain as road conditions continue to deteriorate.
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