Author: Bihar Say | Amrita |

Bihar Engineers to Get AI Training at IIT Delhi: A New Era in Smart Bridge Design

When was the last time you looked at a bridge and thought about the science behind its strength? Starting this September 2025, Bihar is rewriting that story by bringing artificial intelligence, drones, and real-time data into the world of bridge design and safety. And leading this revolution is IIT Delhi, in collaboration with the Bihar government.

Bihar Engineers Step Into the Future

More than 100 government engineers will undergo a six-month certification programme at IIT Delhi. The training will teach them to use AI-driven tools, drones, and sensors for bridge monitoring, design, and maintenance.

This initiative falls under the Bihar State Bridge Management and Maintenance Policy, 2025. Unlike earlier systems, the policy now makes drone-based inspections mandatory for all state-maintained bridges. The shift aims to ensure accuracy, speed, and cost-effectiveness in infrastructure safety.

What Will Engineers Learn?

The new curriculum is not just about theory. It focuses on hands-on technology. Some of the modules include:

• AI & Machine Learning: Computing Bridge Health Index (BHI) scores from drone and sensor data.

• Real-Time Monitoring: Using strain gauges and tilt meters to detect stress points instantly.

• Smart Planning: Applying Maintenance Priority Index (MPI) models to decide which bridges need urgent repairs.

These modules promise to make Bihar engineers self-reliant and skilled in future-ready bridge technology.

A Dedicated Bridge Design Cell

Alongside training, the government will set up a Bridge Design Cell under Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited (BRPNNL). This in-house facility will design bridges, culverts, and retaining walls for Bihar.

Officials estimate that this single step could save over ₹65 crore annually by reducing reliance on external consultants. It also means fewer project delays and faster delivery of safe infrastructure to the public.

Expanding Technical Partnerships

The Bihar government is also in talks with the Indian Academy of Highway Engineers (IAHE) to introduce additional specialized training. Together, these collaborations aim to build a pool of highly skilled bridge engineers who can lead projects not only in Bihar but across India.

Policy That Brings Change

Under the Bihar State Bridge Management and Maintenance Policy, 2025, drone inspections are now compulsory. This approach will help prioritize repairs with real-time accuracy and reduce risks caused by weak structures.

Bihar’s Public Works Minister Nitin Nabin emphasized, “The future of infrastructure lies in technology and self-reliance.” His statement underlines Bihar’s commitment to both innovation and safety.

Rollout Plan for 2025-26

Deployment begins in the financial year 2025-26. In the first phase, 85 bridges will undergo real-time monitoring. Both IIT Delhi and IIT Patna will jointly audit these bridges.

With this move, Bihar isn’t just maintaining old structures. It is building a resilient, tech-powered, and safer bridge network for its people.

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