The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a new policy aimed at enhancing safety measures for various structures such as bridges, tunnels, and viaducts. Starting December 1, 2023, independent verification of design and drawings will be mandatory. This verification will be conducted by accredited Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), government technical institutions, and well-known consulting firms.
Recently, 471 bridges on national highways were flagged for having structural issues. Out of these, repairs have been completed on 159 bridges, while the remaining 312 are scheduled for completion by December 2028, as reported by the Union government in Parliament.
This new requirement for independent proof-checking will apply to all NHAI projects for which the design phase has not yet started. The NHAI emphasized that scrutiny of critical structures, alongside related hydrological and hydraulic studies, is vital to ensure that these constructions are safe, durable, and meet Indian Roads Congress (IRC) standards, especially as many highway assets are expected to last for over 100 years.
As part of this policy, contractors or concessionaires will need to hire a consultant from NHAI’s approved list for independent design checks. This consultant will review all design calculations, structural drawings, and relevant hydrological assessments before any designs are submitted for official approval.
Additionally, the policy introduces a standardized checklist that covers various aspects such as geotechnical investigations, foundation design, structural analysis, and seismic assessments, ensuring a thorough review process. There are specific checklists for major bridges and other critical structures.
The expense of these proof-checking services will be the responsibility of the contractors or concessionaires for different project types, including EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), HAM (Hybrid Annuity Model), and BOT (Build, Operate, Transfer) projects. The proof-checking process must be completed within the set timelines; delays will not automatically lead to time extensions or claims against the NHAI.
Lastly, the circular notes that existing rules regarding proof consultants will remain in effect for structures not covered by this new policy.
