News
Bridging Safety and Accountability: NHAI’s New Condition Rating System for Infrastructure Assets
As India’s national highway network continues to expand, ensuring the structural safety of key assets like bridges has become increasingly vital. In a significant move towards proactive asset management and based on the inputs received, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has introduced the Bridge Inventory and Condition Rating System (BICRS) vide Policy Circular No. 6.41/2025 dated April 7, 2025. The new rating mechanism was developed with input from the authority’s Design Division and aims to establish a structured framework for monitoring and maintaining the health of its bridge structures.
The BICRS mandates bi-annual inspections, documentation, and assessment of all bridge structures. Under this system, a unified repository of all NHAI-managed structures will be prepared, with each asset assigned a unique identification number for streamlined tracking and evaluation.
As part of BICRS, engineers are tasked with recording structural specifications, geographical coordinates, AS-IS drawings (detailed documentation of existing structures), and other critical details. The AS-IS documentation plays an essential role in the context of renovation and maintenance planning.
One of the standout features of the system is the systematic health evaluation based on predetermined rating parameters. Structures flagged for immediate remedial measures, such as the imposition of traffic restrictions or suspension of heavy vehicle movement, will be promptly addressed.
The BICRS system was demonstrated at the Executive Committee meeting on March 18, 2025.
Governance and Compliance
- Initial Setup: Authority/Independent Engineers (AEs/IEs) must record structural specifications and upload documentation via NHAI One and Data Lake.
- Inspection Timeline: The first round of inspections must be completed before the upcoming monsoon, with bi-annual inspections conducted using the NHAI One App.
- Verification: PDs will cross-check data during monthly physical inspections and must inspect structures rated 1–3 within 15 days. If a PD confirms a rating of 1 or 2, a re-inspection or remarks from the RO are mandatory.
A detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is made available through the Datalake helpdesk menu to assist all users. Capacity-building sessions for engineers and stakeholders are also planned to ensure seamless adoption.
The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ earlier push for real-time health monitoring using sensors and advanced technologies, outlined in guidelines issued in March 2024. With BICRS integrated through the NHAI One app and the Data Lake platform, the authority aims to digitize and consolidate inspection data, condition ratings, maintenance records, and recommendations into a centralized dashboard.
The BICRS system will be mandatory for all Regional Offices (ROs) and Project Directors (PDs) effective from April 7, 2025.
By launching BICRS, NHAI is taking a proactive step towards bridging the gap in infrastructure asset management emphasizing transparency, regular monitoring, and timely intervention to uphold the structural integrity and safety of India’s vital highway network.
