The National Highways Authority of India has taken a significant step by initiating a pilot of AIMC. This move is set to revolutionize the construction of national highways in the country. Credit: mrinalpal via Shutterstock. The Indian government is seriously considering the adoption of automated machine-aided construction (AIMC) for its vital infrastructure projects. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has announced this initiative with the aim of enhancing the construction quality to new heights.

Transforming Infrastructure with AIMC

Enhanced Construction Quality with AIMC

The AIMC technology is ingeniously designed to digitize construction data. This allows for the seamless use of digital twins, ensuring strict adherence to design specifications with enhanced transparency. On the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway, the National Highways Authority of India has kick-started a pilot of AIMC, making use of advanced equipment like GPS-aided motor graders, intelligent compactors, and stringless pavers. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has been persistently addressing the long-standing issue of substandard construction quality in Indian infrastructure, as reported by Business Standard.This AIMC method offers a plethora of advantages. It leads to significant efficiency improvements, minimizes waste, ensures timely project completion, and significantly enhances construction quality. It guarantees uniformly compacted surfaces and the creation of longer-lasting roads, along with real-time documentation of the construction progress. The pilot programme is set to cover select expressways and access-controlled national highways. India currently has around 3,000km of high-speed corridors and has ambitious plans to expand this by an additional 45,000km by 2047.

Improved Project Management with AIMC

Earlier in the year, the authority updated the criteria for qualification and performance evaluation of project planners, placing greater emphasis on technical specifications for bidders. Additionally, a contractor rating system was implemented to monitor quality and ensure accountability. This comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of the construction process is optimized and monitored effectively. The use of AIMC not only improves the quality of the roads but also streamlines the overall project management, leading to more successful and sustainable infrastructure development.

Advantages and Benefits of AIMC

The advantages of AIMC are numerous. It brings about a paradigm shift in the construction industry by integrating advanced technology. The efficiency gains are remarkable, allowing for faster construction without compromising on quality. Waste is minimized, which is not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective. Timely project completion is ensured, which is crucial for the smooth functioning of the country's transportation system. The better construction quality means that the roads will last longer, reducing the need for frequent repairs and maintenance. Real-time documentation provides valuable insights into the construction progress, enabling better decision-making and oversight.In conclusion, the pilot of AIMC by the National Highways Authority of India is a game-changer. It holds the potential to transform the infrastructure landscape of the country and set new standards for construction quality and efficiency. With the continuous efforts of the government and relevant authorities, India is on its way to building a world-class transportation network.