Manoj Garg is chief technical officer at Dineshchandra R. Agrawal Infracon Private Limited (DRAIPL), and has extensive experience in the construction, maintenance and monitoring of highway projects. According to him, highway construction has gained momentum over the years due to supportive government policies, modifications to standards and specifications as per requirements, and better implementation at the ground level. However, there is room for improvement in several areas, including project planning, project awards to contractors and concessionaires within prescribed timelines, and timely decisions to avoid cost and time overruns as well as litigation.
Garg began his career at Rajasthan’s Public Works Department, serving across locations such as Jhalawar, Hanumangarh and Bundi. He initially worked on various building projects before transitioning to roads and bridges. He then joined the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in 2003 as manager (technology) on deputation, and was later absorbed into NHAI. During his tenure with the company, he worked in project implementation units in Ghaziabad, Faridabad, Manor (Bombay), Nagpur, Gurgaon and the headquarters at New Delhi. After his superannuation, he served as joint adviser before joining DRAIPL.
Given his extensive professional experience, Garg brings valuable insights to his current role at DRAIPL. His expertise in interpreting contractual clauses facilitates the timely completion of road projects and helps avoid litigation or arbitration. He notes, “The aggressive competition for project awards, and the timely completion of projects while maintaining high standards of quality assurance and efficiency are key challenges.”
Having worked in a government organisation, Garg has an understanding of the centre’s thought process with regard to achieving the ambitious road construction targets. He also understands the challenges faced by road contractors and concessionaires during the bidding, pre-construction and post-construction stages. As such, his inputs during the various stages of construction have helped resolve many challenges, facilitating smoother project completion.
Garg is a civil engineer by training and holds a B.Tech (civil) degree from Pantnagar University. In his free time, he enjoys playing badminton and table tennis. Apart from this, he likes to read, listen to music and engage in discussions. Garg strives for excellence in all aspects of life, without seeking credit or recognition. Garg has two children, a son and a daughter.