In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Bihar government has partnered with IIT Delhi to train its engineers in artificial intelligence–driven bridge design, health monitoring and maintenance. The six-month certification course, set to begin in September 2025, will equip more than 100 government engineers with cutting-edge skills in drone inspections, sensor-based monitoring and algorithmic maintenance planning.

The program forms the backbone of the newly approved Bihar State Bridge Management and Maintenance Policy, 2025, which makes drone-based inspections mandatory for all state-maintained bridges. Officials say the move is aimed at strengthening in-house expertise, cutting reliance on external consultants and building a safer, more resilient bridge network.

Tech-driven training

Engineers will be trained to compute Bridge Health Index (BHI) scores using AI and machine learning to analyze drone and sensor data. They will also learn real-time monitoring techniques using strain gauges and tilt meters, along with applying algorithm-driven Maintenance Priority Index (MPI) models to plan repairs and rehabilitation.

Bridge design cell planned

The state also plans to establish a dedicated Bridge Design Cell under Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited (BRPNNL) for designing bridges, culverts and retaining walls. Officials estimate this could save the exchequer more than ₹65 crore annually while cutting down on project delays.

Further collaborations with the Indian Academy of Highway Engineers (IAHE) are being explored to introduce advanced training in road and bridge structures, creating a pool of specialized engineers.

Roll-out from 2025-26

Deployment of the trained engineers will begin in the financial year 2025-26, with 85 bridges slated for real-time monitoring under a joint audit by IIT Delhi and IIT Patna.

Public Works Minister Nitin Nabin said the initiative reflects Bihar’s push towards technology-led infrastructure. “The future of infrastructure lies in technology and self-reliance,” he remarked.

By blending artificial intelligence, drones and sensor-based monitoring, the state government hopes to set new benchmarks in bridge safety and maintenance.