The Design wing specializes in the design of buildings, roads and bridges, preparation of detailed project reports (DPR) for roads and bridges, and upholds rigorous quality assurance for a variety of projects including road, bridge, and building projects executed by the PWD.
Besides the Chief Design Office at Thiruvananthapuram and Regional Design Offices at Ernakulam and Kozhikkode, the Design wing includes Quality Control Laboratories at all districts for quality assurance, Investigation units at three regions for conducting engineering investigations, Kerala Highway Research Institute (KHRI) at Karyavattom and PWD Training Centre at Neriyamangalam. The Design wing is headed by the Chief Engineer (Design) with headquarters at Thiruvananthapuram.
Functioning of Design Offices
Chief Design Office (CDO)
Chief Design Office functions in the office of Chief Engineer (Design) and shall issue Engineering Design/DPR of Road, Bridge and Building projects for which approval of Chief Engineer is essential. Director (Highways) and Director (Buildings) in the cadre of Superintending Engineers shall assist the Chief Engineer. The CDO consists of the following units for preparing Design and DPR of projects.
Project Preparation Unit (PPU):
The primary function of the unit is to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for various projects using advanced software and modern techniques. These reports play a vital role in project planning, execution, and approval by providing a comprehensive analysis of feasibility, design, cost estimation, and implementation strategies. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and methodologies, the unit ensures accuracy, efficiency, and alignment with industry best practices, ultimately facilitating informed decision-making and smooth project execution as per the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
Structural Design Unit (SDU):
The primary function of the SDU is to develop structural designs and detailed drawings for buildings and associated structures while ensuring safety, durability, and efficiency. This involves incorporating innovative construction technologies and utilizing internationally recognized software to enhance precision and optimize structural performance. The unit strictly adheres to the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) guidelines, ensuring compliance with national safety regulations and quality benchmarks.
Bridge Design Unit (BDU):
The primary function of the BDU is to oversee the planning, design, and preparation of detailed drawings for bridges, flyovers, and associated highway structures. This involves ensuring structural integrity, aesthetic appeal, and the adoption of innovative construction techniques. The unit utilizes internationally recognized software to enhance precision, optimize designs, and integrate modern engineering solutions, ensuring that the infrastructure meets global standards of safety, efficiency, and sustainability as per the standards of Indian Roads Congress and Bureau of Indian Standards.
Highway Design Unit (HDU):
The primary function of the Highway Design Unit (HDU) is to prepare Geometric and Pavement designs, along with Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for highway projects, which involves meticulous planning and adherence to established engineering standards to ensure the safety, durability, and sustainability of road infrastructure. The HDU integrates advanced design methodologies and innovative construction techniques while complying with the guidelines set by the Indian Roads Congress (IRC) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). By leveraging modern software tools and industry best practices, the unit aims to enhance pavement longevity, and improve overall transportation efficiency, ultimately contributing to the development of a robust and well-planned highway network.
Geotechnical Engineering Unit (GEU):
The primary function of the Geotechnical Engineering Unit (GEU) is to analyze and provide solutions for geotechnical challenges related to the construction of buildings, bridges, and highways/roads undertaken by the department. By ensuring compliance with relevant engineering standards and best practices, the GEU plays a crucial role in mitigating geotechnical risks and optimizing the geotechnical design process for reliable and durable infrastructure development.
Environmental Engineering Unit (EEU):
The primary function of the Environmental Engineering Unit (EEU) is to assist in the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) by addressing environmental and social aspects related to infrastructure projects executed by the department. This involves ensuring compliance with the norms and guidelines set by both State and Central Government authorities to minimize the environmental impact and address social concerns associated with infrastructure development.
Mechanical Electrical and Plumbing Unit (MEPU):
Primary function of MEPU is the design and preparation of electrical and lighting systems, plumbing systems and Air Conditioning systems associated with the buildings constructed by the Department.
Quality Control Monitoring Cell (QCMC):
QCMC is functioning in the office of Chief Engineer (Design). The Director (RI&QC) in the cadre of Superintending Engineer shall assist the Chief Engineer (Design) in monitoring the functioning of the Investigation and Quality Control Laboratories and implementation of engineering investigations and quality assurance (Second Tier quality control) in the department.
Regional Design Office (RDO):
RDOs are functioning in regions of the state and shall issue Design/DPR of Building, Bridge and Road projects for which approval of Joint Director in the cadre of Executive Engineer is required.
Regional Investigation and Quality Control (RI&QC) Laboratories:
Primary function of RI&QC Laboratories is to monitor the Quality Assurance activities of the region under consideration along with investigation of projects referred to it by the execution wings of the department.The RIQCL is also conducting the quality assurance activities (Second Tier quality control) of the district in which it is situating. The RIQCL is headed by an Executive Engineer (Quality Control).
District Quality Control (DQC) Laboratories:
Primary function of DQC Labs is to conduct quality assurance activities (Second Tier quality control) for the projects executed by the department in the district in which it is situating.The DIQCL is headed by the Material Engineer in the cadre of Asst. Executive Engineer.
Kerala PWD Training Institute,Neryamangalam:
This Institute with its state of art facility and residential arrangements offers advanced training and is designed to provide comprehensive, continuous training for both engineering and non-engineering staff within the department. The Institute is headed by an Executive Engineer
Kerala Highway Research Institute (KHRI)
The prestigious research institute under the Kerala Public Works Department, KHRI, has come a long way since its establishment in December 1972. The history of the Kerala Highway Research Institute dates back to 1972. It was first named 'Public Works General & Planning Department' as per GO. MS./313/72 PWD dated 20 December 1972. The institute began its operations in Chakka near the PWD workshop. On 1st January 1973, the name 'Public Works General & Planning Department' was changed to 'Testing and Control Laboratories (TCL),'. This Laboratory was the first material testing laboratory in PWD. On 1st February 1973, TCL was shifted to a private building in Vazhuthacaud. As highway research stations emerged across India, the Kerala government decided to establish a research institute in Thiruvananthapuram, aligning with the Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport, and Highways' mandate for state-level road quality institutes. Consequently, TCL shifted its focus to highway research, along with material testing and quality control
On 11th June 1973, TCL's name was changed to 'Kerala Highway Research Institute (KHRI)' as per GO/552/73 PWD dated 11th June 1973. Research funds were allocated to KHRI according to the 'fifth five-year plan' proposal to expand its research facilities. It is a matter of great pride that KHRI took the first step in quality assurance and research in the road sector of Kerala. With the formation of Kerala Highway Research Institute, a nucleus for road research was thus created in Kerala. On 22nd August 1973, KHRI was shifted to another private building in Sasthamangalam. Between 1973 and 1975, the Soil Laboratory and the Bitumen and Aggregates Laboratory were moved to the KHRI Annexe office in the old Barracks Compound (Kuthiralayam) at Palayam, while the Concrete Laboratory remained at Sasthamangalam. In addition to research and material testing, KHRI began providing training to PWD staff as early as 1976. Seminars and classes on various subjects of Highway Engineering were conducted weekly. The research library at KHRI was also set up in the early 70s.
The current KHRI building at Karyavattom was inaugurated on 1 November 1993. Some of our earlier contributions were the development of 'Kandhal Mix' for pothole patching and the study on the use of 'waste plastic in road construction
State Government decided to upgrade KHRI into a Centre of Excellence in Roads sector vide G.O.(Ms). No.53/2020/PWD dated 11/06/2020, envisaging to act as an advisory body/ think tank to assist the GoK/ PWD bring in, and implement best in class practices in Kerala's road sector and work across five thematic areas as follows:
Innovation in design/ construction practices
Road asset management
Road safety management
Quality assurance & contract management
Promoting indigenous research and development
KHRI has widened its area of operation in the role of a COE by undertaking many projects and problem solving activities relevant to the sector by providing specialized research and technical expertise. As a Centre of Excellence equipped with rightly talented manpower and state-of-the-art equipment, KHRI has strived its best to contribute to the public infrastructure development of the State. Expertise drawn from diverse disciplines, collaborates to tackle complex challenges with precision and innovation. The institute's advanced lab with high end equipment and technologies enable in-depth analysis, research and the development of cutting-edge solutions. By fostering a culture of creativity and critical thinking, the institute not only addresses current problems identified but also anticipates future challenges, driving progress through research, development, and real-world applications
KHRI, a Centre of Excellence in PWD, is to:
Function as an advisory body/ think tank for transforming the road sector in Kerala by prioritizing the thrust areas and providing thought leadership, strategic advice, and problem-solving inputs. Act as a knowledge-sharing platform leading to capacity building of the sector.
Assist the GoK/ PWD to bring in and implement best-in-class practices in Kerala's road sector in the next five years. It seeks to carry out the same either in-house or through a network of expert partners.
Sensitize the workforce towards the ultimate goal of quality, safe and aesthetically appealing construction through rigorous training programmes.
As a sole research institute under the Public Works Department, KHRI has been active in research, pilot projects, training, capacity building, and quality improvements in construction and material testing. KHRI collaborates with leading Indian institutions like IITs and CSIR labs, conducting research and pilot studies to introduce cutting-edge technology to Kerala's Public Works Department. It promotes innovation across Kerala's public infrastructure sector by hosting national research conferences, uniting industry, academia, and the public to address infrastructure challenges. With the team work of competent staff, KHRI has been elevated to the role of a Centre of excellence (CoE) in road sector.
In the capacity of CoE with the operational freedom to associate with premier institutes like IITS, NITs and other Industrial Associations, KHRI facilitated a wide range of services including research, consulting, training, standards development, certification and knowledge management. The list of major projects/ activities undertaken by KHRI as a CoE as follows below:
Web based GIS database of Soil.
A Pilot study on drivers' sensitivity based on surrogate safety analysis.
Piled raft foundation design.
Kadalundikadav bridge - Conditional Assessment.
Valiazheekal bridge - Pilot study on the demonstration of the role of slag cement concrete to quadruple the corrosion free service life of marine structures.
Stabilized Lateritic Soils as Base/Sub-base in Road Construction in Kerala.
Moisture Sensitivity of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) - Phase 1.
Introducing State of the Art Techniques and Practices in Road Construction.
Comparison of Superpave vs Marshall compactive effort.
Introduction of Sustainable Pavement Construction Techniques in Kerala.
Moisture Sensitivity of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) – Phase II.
Accident-Prone junction at Karuavattom between Attingal & Sreekaryam.
GIS based road maintenance management system at KHRI.
Setting up of advanced Asphalt Mix Performance Testing Lab at KHRI.
Quality Improvement of Practicing Engineers.
Elevating KHRI to the State-of-the-Art in the Construction Material Testing.
Web of RCC Cantilever Retaining wall & Gravity type CC Retaining wall.
In addition to this KHRI has provided valuable solutions/advisory services to more than 100+ problem solving cases in the field of Civil Engineering
Technical Divisions at KHRI
Concrete & Structures.
Flexible Pavements.
Soil Mechanics and Foundation.
Traffic Engineering.
Innovative Design Unit.
KHRI's testing laboratory is a leading Indian civil engineering lab, holding NABL accreditation (ISO/IEC 17025:2017, Certificate No. TC-9198) for testing scopes in building materials, soil/rock, and non-destructive concrete evaluation-a first for Indian government labs. This achievement reflects rigorous adherence to global standards, equipment calibration, and documented procedures. KHRI's accreditation journey includes:
January 2023: Renewal audit, expanding accredited tests to 68.
September 2023: Scope addition audit, further increasing accredited tests to 125.
January 2025: Scope addition audit, further increasing accredited tests to 144.
The institute also provides a technical library, seminar/conference halls, residential training, advanced computing, and is developing facilities for technologies like augmented reality and climate-resilient models. Through KHRI's problem- solving hub, we strive to turn challenges into fruitful endeavours. Together, we seize every opportunity to consistently improve the quality of our professional roles, professional involvements and working environment.
KHRI will undoubtedly shine even brighter in the years to come as a COE in the areas of training, research, material testing, and innovation.
