From 2014’s 91,287 km to 2024’s 91,287 km, the National Highway (NH) network has expanded by 60% and it does not stop there. The ministry is not just working on the expansion of network but also it is working on introducing a potentially game-changing technology aimed at revolutionising road maintenance across the country.
Combating Pothole Woes with Self-Healing Roads
This technology, called as “self-healing roads”, uses a type of asphalt infused with steel fibres and bitumen, which works in tandem to close a gap or pothole and repairs the damage.
The issue of potholes has been plaguing the Indian roads for long and leading to loss of life and limb and now the ministry is optimistic about this new technology to effectively address the persistent issue.
Though there is still more clarity required on the speed in which the potholes get filled, there is no doubt about the process and underlying principle when it comes to the enhancement of road durability.
As per a senior government official, the improvement in the infrastructure resilience is at the centre point of all this.
However, it is to be noted that the government would now conduct a cost-benefit analysis of the project before the technology seeing the light of the day in the Indian scene.
Exploring the Potential of New Asphalt Blends
The primary material used for road construction, Asphalt is hailed for its sustainability and versatility and its widespread application extends beyond highways to encompass airport runways, parking lots and driveways, offering not only durability but also a smooth and quiet ride experience.
Despite this, there is the risk of deterioration over time in the conventional asphalt since it is susceptible to the formation of cracks and ultimately hazardous potholes.
The new process entails a blend of aggregates, binder and filler, delivered to the construction site via specialised vehicles and compacted using heavy machinery – a well-established practice that has underpinned road construction for decades.
If this turns out well, then that would be a giant leap in road maintenance for NHAI.
However, since the evaluation and assessment of this ambitious project is ongoing, what will be essential now, we have to wait and watch…
