By
Gaurav Kumar, Sr. Vice President – Tech Innovation, Rodic Consultants
Digital transformation has
shifted from being a strategic advantage to a fundamental necessity across all
sectors and infrastructure industry is no exception. The infrastructure sector
defined by tangible proof of roads, bridges, buildings, water systems, and
power grids has entered a future which is not physical anymore. It’s
integrated, intelligent, and invisible.
From fostering liveable,
climate-resilient, and inclusive smart cities that drive economic growth to
highways bridging remote areas, and bullet trains on the horizon, the need for
robust tech-enabled infrastructure has become increasingly evident.
The infrastructure industry
is reacting to these changes by creating a new, connected world by building
advanced solutions that collect data from every interaction and turn it into
actionable insights. These insights further help in optimising performances,
streamlining workflows, and deliver positive outcomes.
The Union Budget 2025-26
has laid out a visionary road for ‘Viksit Bharat’ emphasising on the importance
of national infrastructure development. Putting a special focus on same,
Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that Indian cities will be
recognised for sustainable urban mobility, digital integration, and climate
resilience plans. This is where digital transformation steps in to build a
digitally enabled, citizen-centric, and data-driven infrastructure that is
integral to India's commitment to inclusive growth while mirroring the
principle of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.
India's Smart Cities
Mission is one of the most prominent examples of how advanced technologies are
transforming urban infrastructure. Harnessing the power of technology, smart
cities are fostering rapid urbanization, economic growth and environmental
sustainability goals. Designed with embedded sensors for traffic management,
better water and waste resource management, smart grids for efficient energy
distribution, improved healthcare solutions and public safety measures, smart
cities are creating environments that are sustainable and efficient for all
residents.
At the core of this urban
planning and governance is the smart integration of emerging technologies such
as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning,
Data Analytics etc. that serve as the pillar for collecting, analysing, and
acting upon real-time data. This data-driven, technology-first approach enables
proactive decision-making and facilitates the implementation of modern,
adaptive solutions to improve lives and address urban challenges.
For instance, Bengaluru and
Mumbai have adopted Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) to monitor and manage
traffic in real-time. These systems use AI-based predictive modelling to reduce
congestion, shorten travel time, and enhance commuter experience. Mumbai's
recently introduced BEST Chalo App is a prime example, providing real-time bus
tracking and digital ticketing to enhance public transport accessibility.
Besides, using AI in the
design phase of infrastructure projects further helps in creating efficient
structures, analysing multiple design iterations as well as assessing factors
such as material use, energy consumption, and environmental impact. Drones are
revolutionizing the construction phase of infrastructure projects by
facilitating faster, safer, and more precise operations. Robotics is also being
used which not only helps automate repetitive tasks but also speeds up the
construction process.
While the adoption of these
technologies in infrastructure engineering presents immense opportunities,
there are some challenges and considerations that must be addressed. One key
concern is the cost of implementation of these technologies particularly in
rural areas and developing regions of the country, ensuring no one is left
behind. The integration of advanced
technologies like AI, IoT, ML, and Big Data requires significant investment in
digital infrastructure, skilled labour, and training. Bridging this gap
requires focused initiatives in education and vocational training to prepare
future professionals for an AI-driven infrastructure sector.
Moreover, data privacy and
cyber security concerns are paramount for every digital initiative.
Proliferation of IoT devices and the vast amounts of data collection need
robust regulatory framework to address emerging issues related to data
governance and responsible AI. Inclusivity and addressing digital divide are
another important challenge that must be addressed for adoption of standardized
protocols and avoid inefficiencies.
Despite these challenges,
the future of infrastructure industry intertwined by emerging technologies and
sustainable practices have the potential to spur the growth and innovation. As
India is poised to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047, role of tech-enabled
modernized infrastructure becomes increasingly important.
In this digitally connect
world, India has the potential to lead the world in technological innovation
and sustainable development with right investments and strategic partnerships.
A great step in this direction is the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP)
initiative to augment India's infrastructure, support job creation, and
generate income thus improving the overall competitiveness of the economy.
Nevertheless, the path
forward is clear. We are moving towards a global economic leadership, and the
fusion of digital and physical infrastructure will be the foundation of a
smarter and more sustainable future.
