Bihar launches training programme on FIDIC contracts for road development engineers

Patna: A two-day training programme on the special and general conditions of FIDIC contracts has commenced, jointly organised by Bihar State Road Development Corporation Limited, the Road Construction Department, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The event aims to equip engineers from the state’s road and bridge construction agencies with expertise in handling contracts under the globally recognised FIDIC framework, which governs projects funded by international bodies.

Transport Specialist Idan Luvo and Procurement Specialist Prasath Sanjiva, both from the ADB, are leading the sessions for engineers from the Road Construction Department, Bihar State Road Development Corporation Limited, and Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited (BRPNNL).

The training was inaugurated by Bihar’s Deputy Chief Minister, Vijay Kumar Sinha, who highlighted the crucial role of FIDIC standards in the state’s infrastructure projects, particularly those funded by external agencies like the ADB. The ceremony was presided over by Additional Chief Secretary of the Road Construction Department, Mihir Kumar Singh.

In his address, Sinha noted that the Bihar State Road Development Corporation (BSRDC) was established in 2009 specifically to implement externally funded projects. With ADB’s financial assistance, the BSRDC has so far upgraded and widened 1,638 km of state highways over six phases, with an additional 313 km currently under construction. He explained that projects under loan agreements with ADB are tendered via international competitive bidding, following FIDIC standards, which ensures transparency and quality in the construction process.

“Knowledge of FIDIC standards is essential for engineers to ensure that the terms of externally funded projects are met and implemented on the ground,” Sinha emphasised, underscoring the importance of adhering to these guidelines to avoid contractual violations. He welcomed representatives from Assam and Jharkhand, who are also participating in the training programme, and extended his gratitude to ADB for their continued support.

Sinha also stressed that FIDIC-based projects accelerate the region’s development, multiplying benefits for local communities. He urged engineers to make the most of the training and apply their new knowledge to future projects to foster open competition and transparency.

In his presidential address, Mihir Kumar Singh praised the progress Bihar has made in infrastructure development, stating that the state’s achievements are being recognised both nationally and internationally. He reiterated the department’s commitment to advancing the road sector and encouraged the engineers to take full advantage of the training provided by ADB experts.

The event was attended by key officials, including Sunil Kumar Sinha, Chief Engineer of the Road Construction Department; Praveen Chandra Gupta, Chief General Manager of BSRDC; Sunil Kumar, Managing Director of BRPNNL; and Ranendra Kumar, Bridge Expert from the Road Construction Department.