India’s ambitious transportation projects call for smarter planning and resilient design. Bibhuti Aryal, Senior Director, Transportation, Bentley Systems, and Burak Boyaci, Senior Director, Software Development, Bentley Systems, in conversation with PRATAP PADODE, Editor-in-Chief, CW, discuss how digital twins, AI, and data-driven insights are transforming the lifecycle of roads, bridges and tunnels. By leveraging historical data and mitigating geotechnical risks, they show how integrated technologies help engineers anticipate challenges, enhance safety and deliver long-lasting infrastructure.How do you see digital twin and AI transforming transportation planning and maintenance?Bibhuti Aryal: In India, transportation is a key driver of infrastructure, yet planning is often rushed. AI and digital-twin technologies allow us to reimagine planning, design and execution. Accurate asset data and accessible information are critical for resilient construction, preventing failures and saving lives.Burak Boyaci: Engineers currently spend too much time on drawing production rather than design decisions. Tools like OpenSight+ and OpenRoads support better decision-making during design, suggesting optimisations and drawing on historical data to prevent repeating past mistakes.How can historical project data improve future infrastructure safety and quality?Aryal: Accessing past project data helps identify performance trends, revealing whether issues arise from design, materials, construction or geology. This contextual information allows engineers to make informed decisions early, reducing risks in complex geologically active areas.Boyaci: Beyond data, contract mechanisms impact quality. Lowest-cost bids often compromise outcomes. Value-based contracts that incentivise results rather than cost can significantly improve infrastructure reliability.Can Bentley’s technology enhance safety in transportation projects?Boyaci: Safety extends beyond design. Digital twins allow remote monitoring of tunnels, bridges and roads. For example, the Stone Arch Bridge in Minnesota was monitored via digital twins and AI, reducing the need for field inspections. Similarly, Blyncsy uses live dashcam data to alert operators of hazards like missing signs or traffic light issues.What emerging technologies could transform design and engineering processes?Aryal: AI can propose automated design alternatives and train junior engineers. By integrating geological and geotechnical data, engineers can anticipate potential clashes or hazards. While zero risk isn’t possible, informed decisions greatly reduce failures, particularly in tunnels and metro projects.Boyaci: In regions like India and Nepal, trillions of rupees are being invested in geologically challenging tunnels. Integrating planning, design and monitoring technologies ensures infrastructure stability and long-term resilience.How far has technology advanced in predicting outcomes for complex infrastructure projects?Boyaci: Complete elimination of risk isn’t achievable but combining geological, geotechnical and design data reduces uncertainties. Engineers can identify potential issues early and adapt designs accordingly.Aryal: When accurate data is accessible in the right format, roads, bridges and tunnels can be designed to be more resilient, safer and long-lasting.Quotes:Good design begins with good planning and technology helps make information accessible to reduce risk. – Burak Boyaci, Senior Director, Software Development, Bentley SystemsAI and digital twins allow engineers to anticipate challenges and build resilient infrastructure. – Bibhuti Aryal, Senior Director, Transportation, Bentley Systems