NHAI policy mandates independent design verification of major bridges from December 1

Key facts

• The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced a uniform system for independent checking of designs and drawings for major bridges and other critical structures, effective December 1.
• The policy applies to all new EPC, HAM and BOT National Highway projects and projects where design verification has not yet commenced, but generally not to projects where proof checking is already completed.
• Covered structures include major bridges and viaducts, major river bridges with a design discharge of 3,000 cubic metres per second or more, and bridges with an individual effective span of at least 40 metres, plus other special or complex structures identified by NHAI.
• Verification will be undertaken by empanelled IITs, reputed government technical institutions, and experienced technical firms with expertise in bridge engineering and hydraulic studies, ensuring compliance with Indian Roads Congress (IRC) codes, technical specifications, and contractual requirements.
• Independent checking covers structural design calculations, analysis, drawings, and hydrological and hydraulic studies assessing water flow, flood levels, adequacy of waterway openings, and foundation safety against riverbed erosion.
• Under the process, NHAI will propose three institutions or firms from its empanelled list, from which one or more will be selected to verify designs and submit observations before the contractor makes changes and NHAI reviews or approves the design.