Understanding the Distinction Between National Highways and Asian Highways

The distinction between National Highways (NH) and Asian Highways (AH) lies in their geographic scope, purpose, and management. This article provides an in-depth look at the characteristics and roles of both types of highways and explains why they are crucial for their respective contexts.

Definition and Scope

National Highways (NH) are major roads within a country, maintained and managed by the national government or its authorized agencies. These highways are designed to connect major cities, ports, and regions, facilitating domestic transport and trade. In India, for instance, National Highways are designated with a number and are integral to the country's road transport network.

Purpose and Management

NHs primarily serve the purpose of domestic connectivity. They are managed at the national level, coordinating the transportation needs and infrastructure of a single country.

Asian Highways (AH), on the other hand, form part of a network of roads established under the Asian Highway Agreement. This network aims to promote road connectivity across Asia, enhancing regional cooperation and economic integration. The Asian Highway network is coordinated by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) and involves collaboration among member countries.

Key Differences

Scope: NHs are national in scope, serving domestic transportation needs, while AHs are international, connecting multiple countries within the Asian continent.

Management: NHs are managed at the national level, whereas AHs involve multiple countries and are coordinated internationally.

Purpose: NHs focus on domestic connectivity, while AHs aim to enhance cross-border transport and trade.

Examples in India

India is a prime example where both National Highways and Asian Highways play significant roles.

Asian Highways in India

Asian Highway 1 (AH1): This is a major transcontinental highway that passes through several countries, including India. In India, the AH1 connects key cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. It is a part of the larger AH1 route that extends from Tokyo, Japan, to Istanbul, Turkey.

Asian Highway 2 (AH2): Another significant Asian Highway that traverses multiple countries, including India. In India, the AH2 runs through major cities like Delhi, Agra, Kanpur, and Kolkata before entering Bangladesh. It continues through various countries in Southeast Asia, ending in Denpasar, Indonesia. The AH2 is part of the larger Asian Highway network, connecting several countries in the region.

Conclusion

In summary, while National Highways operate within the boundaries of a specific country and serve domestic transportation needs, Asian Highways are regional networks that connect multiple countries in Asia, promoting cross-border connectivity and cooperation.