A Game-Changer Move? NHAI's Self-Healing Asphalt Set To Transform Highways
a game-changer move? nhai’s self-healing asphalt set to transform highways
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is eyeing a groundbreaking solution to tackle the persistent menace of potholes on the country’s roads. By exploring the innovative technology of self-healing asphalt, authorities aim to revolutionize road maintenance and enhance safety standards.
Innovative Approach to Road Durability
According to The Times of India report, senior government officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed plans to adopt unconventional methods for enhancing road durability and addressing the pothole epidemic. The officer said, “We are considering ingenious and unconventional methods to improve durability and to address the issue of potholes,”. The introduction of self-healing asphalt is set to offer a sustainable solution to this pressing issue.
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Thorough Cost-Benefit Analysis
Before widespread implementation, authorities are committed to conducting a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to assess the viability and effectiveness of the self-healing technology. This meticulous evaluation process ensures that resources are optimally allocated to maximize the impact of road maintenance efforts.
Combatting Rising Accident Rates
India witnessed a concerning 22.6 per cent surge in road accidents attributed to potholes on national highways in 2022 and this spike resulted in 1,856 fatalities.
Innovative Technology Explained
The report added that the self-healing asphalt technology relies on the incorporation of steel wool fragments into the bitumen, the binding agent in asphalt. This innovative addition renders the bitumen conductive, facilitating its heating through induction machines. The heating process enables the bitumen to seamlessly rebind with the surrounding stones and gravel, effectively repairing cracks and preempting pothole formation.
Budgetary Allocations for Road Maintenance
In alignment with its commitment to infrastructure upkeep, the road transport and highways ministry has earmarked Rs 2,600 crore for road maintenance in the 2024-25 budget.
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