International Research Award on Civil and Environmental Engineering

The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is enhancing the efficiency of National Highway projects through Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) systems, which aim to tackle ongoing delays in project completion, with real-time updates and data sharing among stakeholders. AIMC Overview AIMC systems utilize advanced technology to improve road construction. They provide real-time updates on progress and facilitate simultaneous surveys. This approach allows for better communication among stakeholders, including MoRTH and the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI). International Benchmarking MoRTH has researched AIMC systems used in the US, Norway, and the European Union. This study informs the development of India’s strategy for implementing similar technologies. The goal is to enhance road quality and ensure timely project completion. India food delivery On March 2024, 419 out of 952 National Highway projects have missed deadlines. Common issues in...

  Researchers in Japan have made strides in hydrogen fuel production, which utilizes water and sunlight and employs a special reactor with photocatalytic sheets, to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This innovation aims to create renewable hydrogen fuel and it does so without releasing greenhouse gases. However, the technology requires improvements in efficiency for large-scale applications. The Reactor Design The reactor measures approximately 100 square meters and employs a two-step photocatalytic process. This method is more efficient than older one-step systems. Tests indicate that the reactor performs better under natural sunlight. Its efficiency is 1.5 times higher in real sunlight compared to ultraviolet light in laboratory conditions. Areas with more short-wavelength sunlight may yield even better results. Despite advancements, the reactor’s efficiency remains low. It currently operates at only 1% efficiency. This is below the 5% efficiency required for commer...

  The Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF) has been created by the government, which aims to enhance urban infrastructure in smaller cities. It specifically targets Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, which is crucial for improving essential services in these areas. Purpose of UIDF The UIDF addresses the shortfall in priority sector lending, which supports State Governments, Union Territories, and local agencies. The fund focuses on developing critical urban services. Key Areas of Focus UIDF prioritizes several essential projects, which include sewerage systems, solid waste management, and water supply. Sanitation and drainage system improvements are also included, aiming to enhance living conditions in urban areas. Financing Structure The UIDF provides a consistent source of funding, ensures reliable financial support for urban infrastructure projects. This stability is vital for long-term urban development initiatives. The National Housing Bank manages the UIDF, oversees the alloca...