In the pursuit of becoming a developed nation by 2047, India’s economy is soaring, and the role of infrastructure is pivotal in this transformative journey. The vision is clear: to harness the power of infrastructure development for enhanced efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and improved logistics ecosystem. Sumita Dawra, Special Secretary (Logistics) at DPIIT, emphasizes that proper planning and execution are essential for both the ease of doing business and the enhancement of the quality of life. As the nation progresses, it is evident that the Importance of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) cannot be overstated.
Technological Advancements Shaping Infrastructure Development
Agendra Kumar, the Managing Director of ESRI India, underlines the indispensable role of technology in the infrastructure sector. Sustainability stands as a paramount goal, and technology, especially location technology, is a linchpin in achieving it. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) are invaluable tools that enable meticulous planning and execution.
He talked about the impact of climate change and said, “One needs to use technologies in a way that it does not harm the climate. 60% of the large infra project get delayed due to which there is a cost overrun from 20% to 70%.”
By integrating location-based data, infrastructure planners can analyze potential impacts, optimize resource allocation, and simulate disaster scenarios. These technologies serve as critical guides in the construction of resilient and sustainable infrastructure.
Key Priority Areas for Robust Infrastructure Development
Kamal Kishore, Member Secretary, NDMA identifies several priority areas for robust infrastructural growth:
Risk Assessment Mechanism: Developing a sturdy risk assessment framework is imperative. This involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating their impacts, and formulating mitigation strategies. Such a mechanism ensures that infrastructural projects can withstand unforeseen challenges.
Standards and Regulations Upgrade: Adapting and elevating the existing standards and regulations to meet current demands is crucial. These standards act as benchmarks for quality and safety, guaranteeing that the infrastructure meets the required criteria.
Private Sector Investment in Resilience: Financing from the private sector is a vital component of infrastructure development. Encouraging private companies to invest in resilient projects not only fosters economic growth but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure.
Holistic Project Integration: Integrating geospatial expertise right from the project’s inception is pivotal. This approach empowers planners to anticipate challenges, optimize resource allocation, and make informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle.
Empowerment through Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experiences within the geospatial community is essential. Encouraging collaboration and fostering a culture of continuous learning can catalyze innovation in infrastructure development.
Geospatial Expertise: Unseen Powerhouse for Resilient Infrastructure
General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.), Hon’ble Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways and Civil Aviation, aptly points out, “While the geospatial community is diligently working behind the scenes, its significance often goes unnoticed. Yet, this community holds the key to creating robust and sustainable infrastructure. Geospatial expertise allows for intricate analysis and simulation of infrastructure projects, enabling planners to predict disaster impacts and devise effective mitigation strategies.
“The last three union budgets have underscored the significance of infrastructure development, with a focus on capital expenditure. Investment in infrastructure projects has a remarkable multiplier effect on the economy, generating significant growth and employment opportunities. When meticulously planned and executed, these projects become pillars of economic progress.”
Empowering the Geospatial Community
The geospatial community’s role in infrastructure development cannot be overstated. It is crucial to elevate its visibility and emphasize its indispensability. Geospatial expertise needs to be integrated from the project’s inception, enabling planners to make informed decisions based on accurate data and predictive insights.
As India steers towards its vision of becoming a developed nation, the role of infrastructure is paramount. With the guidance of detailed project reports and the integration of geospatial expertise, the nation can construct infrastructure that not only fosters economic growth but also withstands the challenges of a rapidly changing world. The geospatial community must rise to the forefront, asserting its pivotal role in shaping a sustainable and resilient future for India.
