NHAI Rationalises AI-MC Mandate and Strengthens Digital Construction Controls

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has amended its framework governing Automated & Intelligent Machine-Aided Construction (AI-MC) for Four/Six-Laning Highway Works vide Policy Circular No. 11.109/2026 dated August 28, 2026, which amends Policy Circular No. 11.66/2025 dated April 8, 2025. The revised framework rationalises mandatory AI-MC deployment based on project size while strengthening digital quality control, real-time monitoring, data interoperability and construction accountability.

AI-MC is now mandatory where both the total continuous length of the Project Highway exceeds 20 km and the Estimated Project Cost (EPC)/Civil Construction Cost exceeds Rs. 500 crores. Projects below these thresholds may adopt AI-MC as optional. Standalone bridge/ROB/tunnel projects, bypasses below 10 km and strengthening/overlay projects where base earthwork layers are not newly constructed are exempt from this requirement.

The revised framework moves towards continuous, end-to-end AI-MC deployment across the project. AI-MC is to cover relevant construction layers, including embankment, subgrade and GSB, while WMM and subsequent bituminous courses are to be laid using UTS-guided 3D smart pavers. Workflows must be based on a comprehensive 3D digital model, with piecemeal or selective chainage deployment potentially attracting change of specification/reduction in scope provisions under the EPC and HAM frameworks.

To strengthen accuracy and reliability, contractors/concessionaires must establish a continuous survey-grade geodetic control network, with at least five primary control points enclosing each active construction zone. Network RTK (NTRIP) or CORS may be used temporarily where wireless telemetry licensing is delayed for reasons beyond their control, subject to prescribed accuracy requirements.

The amendments introduce stronger digital QA/QC and auditability requirements. Raw field telemetry must be maintained in open, non-proprietary formats such as E57 or LandXML and integrated with NHAI’s open-source platform. RFI layer clearance may be digitally locked until prescribed uniformity and stiffness parameters, including a CoV of not more than 25%, are established. A 200-metre physical trial stretch is also required before full-scale earthwork.

Independent oversight is further strengthened through daily calibration checks, independent survey spot-checks and mandatory suspension of machinery where prescribed staking tolerances are exceeded. Digital telemetry will be cross-verified with RFI submissions, with unmapped stretches being ineligible for interim pavement measurement or milestone payment. Contractors/concessionaires must also furnish specified raw data, 3D models and design records to NHAI and the Independent Engineer (IE) within seven days of request and without additional cost.

A fully compiled and audited digital as-built model of record is also required, capturing layer histories and precise 3D georeferenced locations of project assets and right-of-way utilities. The amendments will apply immediately for upcoming projects where bids are yet to be received; for projects where bids have already been received, they may be incorporated through a supplementary agreement, subject to approval of the concerned Member.

The revised framework marks a shift from a broad AI-MC mandate towards a targeted, end-to-end digital construction regime, linking technology not only with construction and quality assurance but also with measurement, payment certification, auditability and as-built documentation.