NHAI Strengthens Framework for Engaging Professionals in National Highway Consultancy Contracts

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has amended its Standard Request for Proposal (RFP) documents for Authority Engineer (AE) and Independent Engineer (IE) consultancy services. The reforms mandate minimum remuneration for key professionals, sub-professionals, and young professionals, ensuring fair compensation through an escrow arrangement. Additionally, NHAI has revised its policy for Site Engineers, creating structured career progression opportunities and mandating that a minimum of 20% of sub-professional engineering staff in consultancy firms comprise previously engaged NHAI/MoRTH/NHIDCL professionals. A new mandatory empanelment and interview process through the NHAI Skill Bridge portal has also been introduced to enhance the quality of professional engagement and strengthen technical supervision in National Highway projects.