Should India Embrace Sensors and AI for Infrastructure Monitoring?
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Synopsis
Discover why leading experts are urging India to adopt advanced sensors and AI technologies for monitoring critical infrastructure. With traditional methods falling short, can innovative solutions safeguard bridges, tunnels, and dams across the nation?
Key Takeaways
- Urgent adoption of sensors and AI for infrastructure monitoring is needed.
- Traditional visual inspections cannot ensure safety.
- AI technologies can identify internal damages missed by manual checks.
- Environmental factors accelerate deterioration.
- Local sensor development is crucial to reduce costs.
New Delhi, June 15 (NationPress) Prominent experts in structural engineering are advocating for the immediate integration of sensors and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to monitor and manage essential infrastructure throughout India, which includes road and railway bridges, tunnels, and dams.
They emphasized that conventional techniques, such as visual inspections, are no longer sufficient to guarantee the safety and durability of these vital assets.
During a seminar titled ‘Capacity Augmentation & Service Life Enhancement of Bridges,’ hosted by the India chapter of the International Road Federation (IRF), Dr. N. Anandavalli, Director of the CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre in Chennai, asserted that India must transition to more intelligent solutions for infrastructure oversight.
She underscored that contemporary technologies like advanced instrumentation, AI, and data analytics can assist in detecting internal damages that are frequently overlooked during manual inspections.
"Bridges serve as the backbone of our transportation networks. Keeping them in optimal condition is vital for both safety and accessibility," she remarked.
Dr. Anandavalli further explained, "Relying solely on visual inspections poses risks, as they often miss concealed damages and can be subjective and labor-intensive."
She pointed out that environmental factors, exposure to water, air pollution, and escalating traffic loads contribute to the accelerated deterioration of infrastructure, making timely detection and repair increasingly critical.
Employing AI-driven systems and embedded sensors—known as Structural Health Monitoring (SHM)—enables engineers to identify problems early, comprehend damage patterns better, and plan maintenance more efficiently.
However, Anandavalli highlighted a significant obstacle. "Currently, India imports crucial sensors at exorbitant costs. It is imperative that we invest in developing our own sensor technology to lessen reliance on imports and make large-scale infrastructure monitoring more economical," she stated.
In agreement, Dr. Gopal Rai, CEO of Dhirendra Group of Companies, noted that while SHM systems provide numerous advantages over traditional inspections, their high costs remain a primary challenge.
“These technologies are vital for ensuring the safety and extending the lifespan of our bridges and tunnels, but they must become more accessible and affordable for widespread implementation,” he added.
Point of View
I firmly believe that the integration of advanced technologies in infrastructure monitoring is not just a luxury but a necessity for India. Embracing these innovations could significantly enhance public safety and the longevity of our essential structures, aligning with our national interests in development and sustainability.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is AI essential for infrastructure monitoring?
AI helps identify internal damages that traditional inspections often miss, ensuring timely maintenance.
What is Structural Health Monitoring (SHM)?
SHM involves using AI systems and sensors to detect issues early and plan maintenance effectively.
What challenges does India face in sensor technology?
India currently relies on expensive imported sensors, making local development crucial.
How do environmental factors affect infrastructure?
Factors like pollution and traffic loads accelerate the deterioration of infrastructure, necessitating advanced monitoring.
Are there benefits to using AI over traditional inspections?
Yes, AI provides more accurate data, reduces subjective errors, and improves maintenance planning.
