CAREC Institute Hosts “Chai Talk” Webinar on AI in Road Asset Management
The CAREC Institute hosted a “Chai Talk” webinar on 10th September 2025, focusing on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in road asset management. The webinar brought together a panel of experts and participants to explore innovative strategies and practical applications for improving road networks across the region.
At the opening, CAREC Institute Director Charymuhammet Shallyyev welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of the Chai Talk’s theme. He noted that robust road networks are essential for regional connectivity, cross-border trade, and sustainable economic growth. Director Shallyyev emphasized that artificial intelligence is no longer a luxury but a necessity in modern infrastructure management, fundamentally transforming road asset maintenance through predictive analytics and data-driven decision-making. He also noted that the CAREC Institute, with support from the Asian Development Bank, is doing important work to strengthen Road Asset Management practices across the region by organizing annual country-specific workshops based on maturity assessments, and these targeted efforts in countries are crucial to foster sustainable infrastructure management and promote regional cooperation.
The webinar featured insights from a panel of experts: Dr. Ian Greenwood, a chartered professional engineer, introduced the need for high-quality data and robust checks to avoid treating AI as a “black box,” advocating for targeted applications in specific parts of the asset management cycle, like data collection or predictive modeling. Dr. Omidreza Shoghli, Associate Professor at the University of North Carolina, described a research platform using machine learning to integrate historical data—such as weather, traffic, and past maintenance—with drone and visual inspection data to predict asset deterioration accurately. Dr. Theuns F.P. Henning, Associate Professor at the University of Auckland, focused on integrating AI into data processes, calling for better data quality and selective use to address regional resource and expertise gaps. Ms. Ritu Mishra, a Transport Specialist from the Asian Development Bank, shared case studies from Uzbekistan, where an AI-powered “digital twin” reduced carbon emissions by 17% and costs by 10%, and the Philippines, where satellite imagery and machine learning achieved 75% accuracy in road quality assessments. Mr. Jawad Bentabed, an Investment Officer from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, discussed the Manipur Urban Road, Drainage, and Asset Management Improvement Project in India, which uses AI-driven remote sensing and geospatial data to enhance pavement durability and maintenance efficiency against flooding.
The discussion has clearly shown the potential of AI to enhance Road Asset Management through better data handling and technological tools, leading to smarter decisions and cost savings. However, the participants have also reinforced that AI is most effective when guided by human expertise and oversight. They acknowledged the practical challenges around data, capacity, and policy that the CAREC countries face. Yet, examples like the innovative project in Manipur demonstrate tangible benefits and offer replicable models for the CAREC region.
The event, moderated by Dr. Ilhom Abdulloev, Chief of Capacity Building Division of the CAREC Institute wrapped with calls for regional collaboration to share AI pilots and best practices. This aligns perfectly with the CAREC Institute’s focus on empowering policymakers to adopt innovations like AI through effective skills development and policymaking.