Enhanced Oversight: NHAI Sets Up Specialised DPR Cell For National Highway Projects

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a specialised unit aimed at bolstering the scrutiny of detailed project reports (DPRs) pertaining to national highway projects.

According to the statement issued today (3 July), the newly established DPR cell will play a pivotal role in offering expert insights and facilitating comprehensive monitoring of DPRs across national highway initiatives.

Emphasising on stringent adherence to superior construction standards, cost efficiency, and punctual project completion, NHAI has strategically positioned this cell at its headquarters in New Delhi.

The initiative seeks to streamline the evaluation process of DPRs, ensuring consistency and quality assurance before project commencement. Essential to the execution of national highway projects, a DPR encompasses a range of critical surveys, investigations, and design considerations.

NHAI disclosed that the DPR cell will be staffed by a dedicated team comprising approximately 40 professionals. This team includes principal DPR experts alongside domain specialists in road safety, traffic management, land acquisition, bridge and tunnel construction, geotechnical engineering, senior highway oversight, and environmental conservation, reports Business Standard.

The cell will delve into studying bid documents and technical schedules pertinent to national highway projects. This mandate includes providing precise cost estimates based on design specifications and facilitating the integration of projects into the Highway Information Model Software (HIMS).

Furthermore, the DPR cell will actively contribute to pre-construction planning activities, ensuring seamless project initiation and execution. Officials from the cell will conduct comprehensive site visits to evaluate proposals put forth by DPR and design consultants. Their objective is to recommend innovative approaches aimed at optimising project outcomes and enhancing overall DPR quality.