New Delhi, India | 5–6 February – International Road Federation (IRF) Director General Gonzalo Alcaraz participated in the Global Road Infratech Summit and Expo (GRIS 2026), organised by the IRF India Chapter under the theme “Vision Zero India: Integrating Safety, Sustainability and Technology in Infra.” 

GRIS 2026 convened policymakers, industry leaders and technical experts to examine how infrastructure systems can simultaneously advance road safety, environmental sustainability and technological innovation. It focused on practical approaches to achieving Vision Zero objectives while supporting India’s transition toward low-carbon, climate-resilient transport infrastructure. 

During the event, DG Alcaraz chaired a technical session titled “Sustainable Infratech for Transformative Change in India: Vision Zero for Safety and Carbon-Free Developments,” where discussions centred on integrating safety standards, sustainable design and emerging technologies into infrastructure planning and delivery. He also joined a panel on “Policy to Practice: Enabling Vision Zero through Sustainable Infrastructure and Smart Mobility,” addressing the role of governance frameworks and industry collaboration in translating policy commitments into operational results.  

The summit programme covered a wide range of priorities aligned with IRF’s mission, including smart infrastructure governance, innovations in road and pavement engineering, resilient construction practices, asset management and sustainable materials.  

The rest of the Summit themes included:  

• Policy and Governance for Smart Infra  
• Innovations in Road Infrastructure 
• Bridges and Tunnels in Future  
• Technology Upgrade for Road Infra  
• Sustainability and Resilience in Infrastructure 
• Smart Infrastructure for Safety  
• Sustainable Construction Practices 
• Contracting System Innovations for Quality-Sustainable Infra  
• Innovations for Durable Pavement 
• Recycling of Materials for Infrastructure 
• Various Bitumen Formulations  
• Smart Asset Management for Economy in O&M  

Parallel to the conference, an exhibition showcased advances from road sector companies, academic institutions and research organisations developing next-generation infrastructure solutions. 

GRIS 2026 served as a platform for international knowledge exchange and professional networking, reinforcing cooperation between public and private stakeholders working to improve the safety, efficiency and sustainability of road infrastructure. DG Alcaraz’s participation supported ongoing efforts to promote global best practices and strengthen partnerships that contribute to safer and more resilient transport systems. 

“GRIS 2026 concluded on a powerful note, bringing together policymakers, global experts, industry leaders, academicians and practitioners on one platform to collectively reimagine the future of road infrastructure and mobility in India. GRIS 2026 was not just a summit—it was a collective commitment towards safer roads, sustainable infrastructure and people-centric mobility. A heartfelt thank you to all speakers, panellists, delegates, partners, sponsors, exhibitors and the organising team for making GRIS 2026 a resounding success. The conversations started here will continue to shape action on the ground.” – IRF India Chapter