NHAI mandates AI monitoring for highway projects amid builder concerns

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued fresh directives requiring highway developers to implement technology-driven monitoring systems across all major infrastructure projects. The new framework mandates the use of AI-enabled cameras, drone surveillance, and digital dashboards to identify construction defects in real time, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The push toward automated monitoring reflects NHAI's efforts to enhance quality control and expedite defect detection on highway projects across the country. Digital systems are expected to reduce inspection timelines and provide objective records of construction progress, addressing long-standing concerns about quality assurance in road infrastructure development.

However, the directive has prompted builders to raise concerns about project economics. Developers have sought clarification on adequate maintenance payment schedules and have called for more realistic bidding parameters that account for material costs and labour expenses. Industry representatives argue that current bid structures do not adequately reflect ground-level implementation challenges.

The NHAI's emphasis on tech-led oversight underscores the authority's commitment to leveraging digital tools for infrastructure transparency. Officials indicated that the enhanced monitoring framework would apply to ongoing and future highway contracts, though detailed implementation guidelines are expected to be circulated to all stakeholders in the coming weeks.