Many of us have never experienced a war like situation that the nation faced recently. Indian citizens staying close to the border and also in major urban centres on the western part of the country must have had some anxious nights. War, like many endeavours requires thorough preparation and planning. Not known to many, construction engineering is the backbone of operational success in war — enabling mobility, defence, supply, and sustainability. Without it, modern warfare would be logistically impossible!

Just like in the Quality Management function, construction professionals contribute significantly before, during and after the war. Preparation of war infrastructure like roads, bridges, bunkers, airfields obviously require major contribution from construction. During the war, construction engineers contribute to obstacle breaching, filed fortification and rapid deployment of infrastructure. After the war, rehabilitation and rebuilding makes it a full circle contribution.

While the fighting units rightly deserves all our support, praise, and gratitude, let us also say a silent thank you to all the construction professionals in our armed forces!