Civil engineering is not under threat from emerging technologies, but is poised for a strong revival driven through innovation and interdisciplinary integration, says Kalyana Rama Jyosyula, associate professor at the Smart and Sustainable Materials Lab, Department of Civil Engineering, Mahindra University.Speaking to The Hindu during his recent visit to Vijayawada, he highlighted about Mahindra University’s emphasis on innovation and the startup incubated at the university- Precastelite Confab Private Limited- which has developed a solution to one of the most common construction problems, wall leakages and seepages.“The team has created a pre-plastered composite block that eliminates the need for on-site plastering and curing, reducing cost, time and manpower while addressing moisture-related issues,” he explained, informing that the innovation has already secured one utility patent and two design patents, with more in the pipeline.He added the startup is in discussions with the Ratan Tata Innovation Hub (RTIH) in Andhra Pradesh and has been advised to explore collaboration with the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) and AP Skill Development Corporation, potentially linking the technology to infrastructure development in the Amaravati capital region.On the role of technology in civil engineering, Dr. Jyosyula identified ‘Building Information Modelling’ (BIM), digital twins, artificial intelligence integration, risk management and structural health monitoring’ as key focus areas for the coming decades. BIM, he explained, has evolved from simple 2D drawings to multi-dimensional systems that integrate time, cost and sustainability, while digital twins enable real-time monitoring of structures from remote locations.Referring to the concerns being raised about artificial intelligence, he says it as a “double-edged sword” that must be used responsibly and ethically. “AI is a powerful tool, but blindly following it without understanding the fundamentals can be dangerous,” he cautioned, stressing the importance of strong foundational knowledge.Dr. Jyosyula said that the Mahindra University promotes an interdisciplinary education model, allowing students to combine engineering with management, law, design, business analytics, biotechnology and entrepreneurship. “Engineering today is an umbrella discipline. Students are given the freedom to explore, but with strong roots in fundamentals,” he said.Responding to the perception that core branches like civil engineering are losing relevance, he said the shift towards computer science presents an opportunity rather than a threat. “If civil engineering integrates Industry 4.0 technologies and aligns with industry needs, it will shine brighter than before,” he asserts.Published - December 26, 2025 08:29 pm IST