Civil engineering is not under threat from new technologies. It is set for a strong comeback through innovation, says Kalyana Rama Jyosyula, associate professor at Mahindra University’s Civil Engineering Department. He spoke to The Hindu during his visit to Vijayawada. Mahindra University focuses on innovation, backing startups like Precastelite Confab Private Limited. This startup made a pre-plastered composite block to stop wall leaks 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," Jyosyula explained. This product already has one utility patent and two design patents. Talks are ongoing with Andhra Pradesh’s Ratan Tata Innovation Hub and other regional bodies for broader use in Amaravati’s infrastructure. Regarding tech in civil engineering, Jyosyula highlighted Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins, artificial intelligence, risk management, and structural health monitoring as key future areas. BIM now covers time, cost, and sustainability beyond simple drawings. Digital twins help monitor structures remotely in real time. He called AI a "double-edged sword" needing ethical, careful use. "AI is a powerful tool, but blindly following it without understanding the fundamentals can be dangerous," he warned. Mahindra University supports an interdisciplinary approach, mixing engineering with fields like management, law, and entrepreneurship. "Engineering today is an umbrella discipline," Jyosyula said. On civil engineering’s relevance, he sees the rise of computer science as an opportunity, not threat. "If civil engineering integrates Industry 4.0 technologies and aligns with industry needs, it will shine brighter than before," he stated.