Pekanbaru – PT Hutama Karya Infrastruktur (HKI) is currently working on one of the segments of the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, specifically the Pekanbaru–Bangkinang Toll Road, spanning 40 kilometers. The Pekanbaru–Padang Toll Road itself will stretch for 254 kilometers and is part of the broader Trans-Sumatra Toll Road network.

In constructing the Pekanbaru–Bangkinang segment, HKI has implemented Building Information Modeling (BIM), in accordance with directives issued by the Toll Road Regulatory Agency. This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Public Works and Housing’s (PUPR) direction to advance digital construction in Indonesia through regulatory frameworks, human resource development, innovative financing, and the application of research and technology—particularly the implementation of BIM.

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a construction project, presented in 3D and animations that can be visualized through Virtual Reality (VR). The 3D model contains comprehensive information used by stakeholders as a basis for decision-making throughout the construction process.

For the Pekanbaru–Bangkinang project, BIM has been applied in main road and structure planning (including overpasses, underpasses, bridges, traffic and drainage boxes), schedule simulations, and cost estimating. In the field, some construction works have also begun using BIM-generated shop drawings, replacing previously used manual drawings.

By utilizing BIM, the document approval process can be carried out anytime and anywhere. BIM can also be used as a tool to compare planning with on-site implementation, in terms of work volume, cost, and scheduling.

With BIM, the construction process is expected to become more efficient. Tasks that would typically require multiple people and extended timeframes can be accelerated. For instance, generating shop drawings, Bar Bending Schedules, and volume calculations—which usually take around 24 days for main road work and 17 days for main structures—can now be completed in approximately 13 days using BIM. Another key benefit is the enhanced accuracy of volume calculations, as the system can interpret forms in detail based on the planned model. Overall, the implementation of BIM in toll road construction contributes to time and cost savings while improving project precision and efficiency.