Driving long hours on highways with little to no rest can be exhausting — and often dangerous. Addressing this critical issue, the Indian government has launched a revolutionary initiative for truck drivers: the ‘Apna Ghar’ Scheme, which allows them to book an air-conditioned room for 8 hours at just ₹112. What’s even better? This facility is completely free if the driver refuels 50 litres of high-speed diesel.

Launched by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the ‘Apna Ghar’ scheme aims to provide safe, hygienic, and affordable rest stops for truckers on national highways. These rest houses are equipped with:

• Air-conditioned rooms

• Clean washrooms and bathing areas

• Safe truck parking space

• Food availability and self-cooking options

• Drinking water

• Fresh bedding and rest facilities

Truck drivers often sleep roadside due to lack of proper rest zones. This scheme offers them a secure, clean, and low-cost alternative during their long journeys.

Truck drivers can rest in a comfortable AC room for just ₹112 for 8 hours. However, if a driver refuels 50 litres of high-speed diesel, they are eligible for a free stay. This not only encourages proper rest but also promotes safer driving and reduces accident risks on highways.

Launched in April 2025, the scheme is witnessing a massive response from the trucking community:

• In April–May, around 3,348 bookings were made

• In June, bookings skyrocketed to 16,559

• Over 65,000 truck drivers have already downloaded the ‘Apna Ghar’ mobile app

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the scheme on social media, emphasizing that a major cause of highway accidents is driver fatigue. This initiative seeks to directly address that concern.

As of now, 368 ‘Apna Ghar’ centres have been set up along India’s national highways, including:

• 4 centres on the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway

• Over 4,400 beds are currently operational

• The government plans to expand to 1,000 centres by March 2027

These centres are built by oil marketing companies and will continue to grow in number and quality over the next two years.

Each Apna Ghar center offers:

• Food (cooked meals or self-cooking areas)

• Clean toilets and bathing areas

• Filtered drinking water (cold and hot)

• Proper bedding and rest arrangements

• Dedicated truck parking spots

Truckers can download the 'Apna Ghar' mobile application from their app store. The app helps:

• Locate the nearest rest stop based on the trucker's highway route

• Check availability of rooms

• Make advance bookings online

This makes it extremely easy for drivers to plan their rest stops without confusion or delay.

The Apna Ghar Scheme is a thoughtful and much-needed move by the Indian government, ensuring truck drivers have access to proper rest and hygiene. With over 65,000 users already onboard, it’s clear that the initiative is making an impact. If you or someone you know is a truck driver, this scheme could mean safer journeys and healthier lives.