Building roads with proof, not promises: Odisha among four states under pilot project for MQCVs

As India accelerates highway construction at an unprecedented pace, the focus is shifting from merely expanding road networks to ensuring global standards in quality, safety and durability. In a significant move toward this goal, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has launched a pilot project to monitor the quality of National Highway construction through Mobile Quality Control Vans (MQCVs), with Odisha among the four states selected for implementation.

The pilot project is currently operational in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka and Odisha. The initiative aims to ensure that highways are built not just faster, but with measurable quality benchmarks backed by scientific testing and real-time monitoring.

How the Technology Works

The Mobile Quality Control Vans function as fully equipped, on-the-move laboratories designed to conduct rapid, non-destructive testing at active construction sites. Instead of waiting for laboratory results or relying solely on visual inspections, engineers can now assess the structural integrity and material quality directly on-site without disrupting ongoing work.

Each MQCV is equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, including ultrasonic pulse velocity meters, rebound hammers, asphalt density gauges, light-weight deflectometers and reflectometers.

The rebound hammer is used to measure the surface hardness and estimate the strength of hardened concrete structures. The ultrasonic pulse velocity meter sends sound waves through concrete to detect internal cracks, voids and inconsistencies that may not be visible externally. Asphalt density gauges help ensure proper compaction of asphalt layers, which is crucial for the longevity and durability of pavements. The light-weight deflectometer assesses the density of compacted soil and granular sub-base layers, ensuring a stable foundation for highways. Reflectometers evaluate the visibility of road signs and markings, ensuring they remain clearly readable for motorists during both day and night.

Together, these instruments transform highway quality control from a reactive system to a proactive and preventive mechanism, ensuring accountability and long-term reliability.

Real-Time Monitoring and Transparency

Under the pilot framework, test results generated by the MQCVs are shared with the Ministry’s field offices. In cases where quality deficiencies are detected, immediate corrective measures can be taken. To enhance transparency and oversight, MoRTH is developing a National Highway Quality Monitoring Portal. The portal will make test reports available online and provide real-time GPS tracking of the mobile vans, enabling data-driven supervision of highway projects across the country.

For Odisha, which is witnessing rapid expansion of National Highways to boost connectivity, trade and economic growth, the deployment of MQCVs marks a significant step toward ensuring durable infrastructure that meets national and international standards.

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Expansion Planned Across India

Following the pilot phase in Odisha and three other states, the Ministry has planned to expand the MQCV system to 11 additional states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Assam and Meghalaya. Tenders for the next phase have already been invited, and the expanded rollout is expected to be commissioned by June 2026.

With this initiative, the government aims to reinforce a clear message: India’s highways will be built not only at speed and scale, but also with transparency, technological precision and accountability at their core.