NHAI makes independent design checking compulsory for major bridges
15 October 2026
The National Highways Authority of India introduced a uniform system for independent checking of designs of major bridges and critical structures on 15 October 2026.
Designs will be independently checked by empanelled Indian Institutes of Technology, reputed government technical institutions and experienced bridge engineering firms.
The policy covers major river bridges with a design discharge of 3,000 cubic metres per second or more and structures with an individual effective span of 40 metres or more.
Three institutions or firms will be proposed from NHAI's empanelled list for each project, and one or more will be selected.
The policy comes into effect from 1 December 2026.
It applies to new Engineering Procurement and Construction, Hybrid Annuity Model and Build-Operate-Transfer projects.
In plain words
IRC Indian Roads Congress — The body that frames technical standards for roads and bridges in India.
HAM Hybrid Annuity Model — A highway contracting model where the government funds part of the cost upfront and pays the rest as annuities.