NHAI to Mandate Independent Design Checks for Major Bridges Starting December 1

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a new policy requiring independent design checks for major bridges, effective from December 1. The initiative aims to strengthen quality assurance and safety standards across highway infrastructure projects.

Under the new framework, Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), other technical institutions, and experienced specialized firms will be tasked with undertaking independent verification of bridge designs. This dual-review system is intended to identify potential issues before construction begins and reduce structural risks.

The move reflects NHAI's commitment to improving the robustness of bridge engineering standards and ensuring compliance with international best practices. Independent design audits are expected to enhance accountability and provide an additional layer of scrutiny beyond standard approvals.