NEW DELHI : The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is considering the implementation of innovative self-healing asphalt technology that could transform road maintenance in the country. This technology aims to address the persistent issue of potholes, which contribute significantly to road accidents and fatalities in India. A senior government official mentioned that the focus is on unconventional methods to enhance road durability and mitigate the pothole problem.
Self-healing asphalt contains small pieces of steel wool mixed into the bitumen, the binding agent in asphalt, making it conductive. When heated using an induction machine, the bitumen rebinds with the stones and gravel in the asphalt, repairing cracks and preventing potholes from forming. Before adopting the technology on a large scale, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to ensure its feasibility and effectiveness.
The road transport and highways ministry has allocated Rs 2,600 crore for road maintenance in the 2024-25 budget, consistent with previous years' estimates. India experienced a 22.6% rise in road accidents caused by potholes on national highways in 2022, emphasizing the need for such technology. By adopting self-healing asphalt, the NHAI aims to increase the lifespan of roads and reduce the need for maintenance, ultimately minimizing traffic disruptions.
How India Reaffirms Support for Two-State Solution at UN Meeting
How 'Harry Potter' Day on May 2 Unveils the Magic, A Special Story For You
