Patna: The Bihar government has approved the rollout of a high-tech monitoring system for rural roads and bridges, marking a shift towards technology-led oversight of village infrastructure projects across the state.
Under the plan, the Rural Works Department will introduce a GIS-based monitoring framework that combines drone surveillance, CCTV cameras and other digital tools to track construction quality and maintenance standards in real time. A central control and command centre will be set up at the department’s headquarters to oversee inspections carried out by field engineers and assess the condition of roads and bridges on a continuous basis.
Officials said the system, estimated to cost Rs 178.52 crore, is expected to significantly reduce inspection-related expenditure. Government sources said the department could save between Rs 700 crore and Rs 800 crore in inspection costs over time by replacing manual checks with technology-driven monitoring.
The platform will also be used to identify and act against encroachments on rural roads, a persistent problem that often undermines connectivity and safety. By detecting unauthorised construction early, officials say the system will allow for swift enforcement and help preserve newly built roads for public use.
According to sources, the activities of engineers at all levels — from junior engineers to chief engineers — will be tracked through a centralised dashboard, increasing accountability within the department. The system, named the Intelligent Rural Road Maintenance Monitoring System (IRRMMS), will integrate data from multiple sources to provide a comprehensive view of project execution and upkeep.
An external agency will be appointed through a tender process to design, operate and maintain the technology and equipment required for IRRMMS. Officials said the move reflects a broader effort by the state to strengthen quality control in public works while improving efficiency and transparency in infrastructure management.
The government believes the initiative will not only improve the durability of rural roads and bridges but also enhance ease of travel and connectivity for residents in Bihar’s villages.
