The Civil Engineering Association of NERIST (CEAN) successfully organized an expert talk on “Basics of Roads & Bridges: Construction and Its Challenges in Hill Roads with High Precipitation” on 23.07.206 (Thursday). The session was delivered by Er. Onyang Tatak, Executive Engineer, Rural Works Department, Government of Arunachal Pradesh.

The programme commenced with a welcome address by the Coordinator of CEAN, Dr. Yamem Tamut, followed by the felicitation of the distinguished guest. The Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, who is also the Patron of CEAN, addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of understanding the practical challenges involved in infrastructure development in hilly regions. This was followed by the expert lecture by Er. Onyang Tatak and an inspiring address by Prof. Madhubala Sharma, Dean (Research & Development), NERIST.

During the lecture, Er. Tatak provided a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of road engineering, including the components of road cross-sections, stages involved in road construction, terrain classification, preliminary and detailed surveys, types of pavements, and the significance of efficient drainage systems. He also elaborated on the planning and construction of bridges, highlighting the key engineering considerations and construction methodologies.

A major focus of the talk was the unique challenges associated with the planning, design, and construction of roads and bridges in hilly regions experiencing high precipitation. The speaker discussed the influence of varying soil and rock conditions, frequent landslides, slope instability, drainage issues, and adverse weather conditions on infrastructure development. He also emphasized the importance of geotechnical investigations and explained the essential soil tests required to assess soil properties before commencing construction.

The interactive session provided valuable practical insights into the complexities of infrastructure development in mountainous terrains. It significantly enhanced the understanding of students and faculty members regarding modern road and bridge construction practices, the challenges encountered in high-rainfall regions, and the engineering solutions adopted to overcome them.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by the General Secretary of CEAN, who expressed sincere gratitude to the distinguished speaker, dignitaries, faculty members, students, and all those who contributed to the successful organization of the event.