Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has urged greater use of artificial intelligence (AI) in preparing detailed project reports
(DPRs) for highways, mining projects and agriculture-related initiatives. Also Read: India Targets World’s Top Spot For Auto Industry Within 5 Years: Gadkari Speaking at an event on Wednesday, Gadkari stressed that the quality of DPRs prepared by consultancy firms in India is often inadequate, and AI could bring in much-needed efficiency and accuracy. “AI can be used in every field, including DPR preparation for highways and mining, as well as for improving agricultural productivity,” he said. DPRs, which include surveys, investigations and designs, play a crucial role in project implementation. The minister recently warned that the government would penalise consultants who fail to follow proper procedures in preparing reports for highways and tunnels. Highlighting further applications, Gadkari said AI could also be deployed to analyse road accident data and identify black spots, helping enhance road safety. While calling it a “qualitative reform,” he also cautioned against the misuse of the technology. Also Read: Is This DC2-Modified Mahindra XUV 3XO Worth Your Money? Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, Gadkari said innovation, technology and AI would be key drivers in India’s push to become the world’s third-largest economy. (With inputs from PTI)
