Delhi PWD to Introduce In-House Testing System to Strengthen Road Quality Checks

New Delhi | March 17, 2026: The Public Works Department (PWD) in Delhi is preparing to establish its own internal material testing system to improve the quality of road construction projects across the capital. The initiative aims to enhance monitoring standards and speed up verification processes.

PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh stated that the new mechanism will allow the department to conduct sample testing independently, reducing reliance solely on external institutions. At present, contractors are required to send material samples to reputed engineering colleges and government-approved laboratories for quality assessment.

According to existing procedures, testing is carried out at institutions such as the Central Road Research Institute, IIT-Delhi, Jamia Millia Islamia, and other approved engineering colleges under the supervision of project engineers. The same framework is followed for post-completion quality audits.

The minister explained that the department plans to procure necessary equipment to begin in-house testing, starting with road quality evaluations. He noted that reports from external labs can take several weeks or even months, and an internal system would significantly reduce delays.

As part of the initial phase, the PWD will focus on road surface assessment, including bitumen testing. Officials mentioned that equipment such as a block cutter machine will be acquired to evaluate material strength and durability.

Government representatives indicated that quality checks will soon begin on several ongoing repair projects. Based on the findings, further improvements and procedural adjustments may be implemented to ensure higher construction standards.

The department has also outlined plans to repair approximately 600 kilometres of roads across Delhi within the current year. Authorities believe that improved testing protocols will contribute to long-term durability and better infrastructure management.

Officials added that contractors are already required to provide on-site testing tools, including weighing scales, thermometers, sieves, and other equipment, enabling engineers to conduct field inspections as per specifications. The upcoming changes are expected to complement these existing safeguards.

With the introduction of in-house quality testing, the government aims to strengthen accountability, enhance efficiency, and ensure that road projects meet prescribed technical standards.