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Road and Bridge Infrastructure Training Boosts Engineer Skills

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IITRAM conducts a 5-day Training Programme for practising Engineers on Roads and Bridge Infrastructure

The Department of Civil Engineering at IITRAM organised a five-day Short-Term Training Programme for practising engineers from various municipal corporations across Gujarat. The programme, held from 24 to 28 November 2025, focused on “Training of Road and Bridge Infrastructure.” It was supported by the Gujarat Urban Development Institute (GUDI), Government of Gujarat.

The training brought together 37 engineers who play a key role in building and maintaining roads and bridges in many Gujarat cities. The aim was to help them learn new methods, understand new tools, and solve problems they face in the field. Before the sessions began, organisers shared that engineers today need to stay updated because traffic loads, climate change, and rapid urban growth are creating new challenges in infrastructure work.

One of the first topics covered was geotechnical investigation. Engineers learnt how soil under a road or bridge affects the structure’s strength. They studied soil testing, borehole methods, and how to judge soil safety. Experts explained that many road failures in India happen because soil strength is not checked well. This session helped engineers understand how proper soil study prevents accidents and reduces repair costs.

Participants also learnt about geosynthetics. These are modern materials placed under roads to make them stronger. Trainers explained that geosynthetics help stop soil erosion, improve drainage, and increase road life. Many successful highway projects in India and abroad now use them. Engineers received simple demonstrations that showed how these materials behave under pressure and water flow.

Another major part of the programme was pavement design. Teachers explained the difference between flexible pavements (bitumen roads) and rigid pavements. They also described how traffic counts, wheel loads, rainfall, and soil type affect road design. Engineers explored common pavement problems such as potholes, cracking and water damage, and learnt how proper design can stop these issues before they appear.

Bridge engineering was one of the most important sections. Participants studied how existing bridges must be inspected. Trainers shared examples from Indian bridge audits where small cracks, rusting steel, loose joints and blocked drainage caused major risks. Engineers were guided on how to do visual checks and how to use simple tools to measure damage. They also learnt about prestressed bridges, which use tensioned steel wires to make long and strong bridge spans. This type of bridge is common in modern expressways.

Hands-on training was an important part of the programme. Engineers worked with real tools and tested soil samples. They also examined model bridge components. Trainers said that practical work helps engineers understand concepts faster than classroom learning alone.

A field visit was arranged to show the group how theories work on actual sites. Participants watched ongoing work on a road improvement project and a bridge repair project. Site engineers explained common problems such as uneven settlement, waterlogging and traffic pressure. Visitors were also shown how safety steps are followed during construction.

A knowledge-sharing session allowed engineers from different cities to talk about the problems they face in their daily work. Many said that old drainage systems, heavy monsoon rains and unplanned digging for utilities create serious damage to roads. Others shared how the lack of bridge inspections in the past has caused worrying conditions in some structures. These discussions helped everyone learn from each other.

By the final day, feedback from participants was very positive. Many said the training gave them new confidence and a better understanding. They felt that the programme would help them improve the quality of roads and bridges in their cities. Teachers noted that well-trained engineers lead to safer roads, longer-lasting bridges, and better public services.

The programme ended with a short valedictory session, where certificates were given to all engineers. IITRAM and GUDI stated that they will continue holding such training programmes to support technical growth across the state.