The Indian road transport ministry has taken a significant step toward enhancing the safety of aging infrastructure by issuing a standardized tender document for the procurement of continuous structure monitoring systems for bridges. This move aims to ensure that major and extra-long old bridges on the national highway network are equipped with advanced sensors for real-time health monitoring.
Need for Continuous Monitoring
Officials have highlighted that while new major bridges are fitted with sensor-based monitoring systems, a large number of older bridges lack such technology. The new directive will allow regional officers of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the road transport ministry, and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) to use the document to engage specialized firms for the installation and maintenance of these systems.
System Components and Phases
The agencies selected will be responsible for the supply, installation, commissioning, and long-term operation and maintenance of advanced instruments designed to track the structural integrity of bridges in real time. This includes deploying a wide range of sensors, along with hardware for data acquisition, transmission, and reporting. The system will enable authorities to detect early warning signs of stress, damage, or failure, allowing corrective steps to be taken before any mishap.
The work will be divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: Installation and commissioning of the Bridge Health Monitoring system, to be completed within six months.
- Phase 2: Operation and maintenance of the system, ensuring snag-free functioning for a minimum of 10 years.
Significance for Road Safety
This initiative is crucial given the urgent need to monitor the behavior of old major bridges on the country's national highway network. Continuous monitoring will help prevent accidents and extend the lifespan of these structures, ultimately enhancing road safety for millions of commuters.
