In a recent announcement by the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, the government has detailed the extensive measures being taken to maintain and upkeep India’s National Highways (NHs), including the vital bridges and structures that form the backbone of the nation’s transportation network.
Multi-Faceted Maintenance Approaches
The maintenance of National Highways is a complex operation, involving various contractual frameworks to ensure thorough and continuous upkeep:
- Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) Contracts: Under EPC contracts, contractors are responsible for the maintenance of roads during the construction period and continue their obligations during the Defects Liability Period-cum-Maintenance Period.
- Design Build Finance Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) / Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) Contracts: Concessionaires under these contracts take on the responsibility of maintaining the roads not only during the construction phase but also throughout the concession period.
- Toll Operate and Transfer (TOT) / Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) of Infrastructure Investment Trust (INVIT) Agreements: In these agreements, concessionaires manage the maintenance during the entire concession period, ensuring long-term care and serviceability.
- Performance-Based Maintenance Contract (PBMC) and Short-Term Maintenance Contract (STMC): Other segments of the National Highways are maintained by contractors engaged through PBMC and STMC, focusing on performance and short-term upkeep respectively.
Robust Inspection and Monitoring Systems
To safeguard the structural integrity and functionality of National Highways and their associated structures, a stringent regime of visual and equipment-based inspections, evaluations, and monitoring has been put in place. These periodic checks are designed to identify and address potential issues promptly through timely repairs and rehabilitations.
Additionally, for particularly crucial bridges, real-time structural health monitoring systems have been implemented to ensure continuous oversight and immediate intervention if needed.
The Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS)
One of the key initiatives sanctioned by the Ministry is the Indian Bridge Management System (IBMS). This system is a comprehensive tool designed for the monitoring and maintenance of bridges and other structures across the entire National Highway network. IBMS aims to streamline and enhance the efficiency of maintenance operations, ensuring that the nation’s infrastructure remains robust and reliable.
The announcement by Nitin Gadkari underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining the nation’s critical infrastructure through a multi-layered and methodical approach. By leveraging various contractual frameworks and advanced monitoring systems, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways is dedicated to ensuring that India’s National Highways and bridges remain safe, functional, and ready to support the country’s growing transportation needs.
