The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has appointed the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay as an independent quality control agency to oversee the construction of 701 km of cement concrete roads in Mumbai. The agreement, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marks a significant step in ensuring superior road quality across the city, amidst ongoing infrastructure developments.
The project is being executed in two phases, with the first phase covering 392 km of road construction, and the second phase encompassing 309 km. Given the scale and importance of this project, IIT Bombay, a premier engineering institution located in Powai, will undertake comprehensive quality assurance measures. These include a series of rigorous tests such as cube tests, core tests, slump cone tests, durability tests, and field density tests to ensure adherence to the highest construction standards.
The involvement of IIT Bombay introduces a robust mechanism for quality management. The institute’s responsibilities extend to conducting surprise inspections, site visits, and holding feedback sessions with stakeholders to maintain consistent oversight of the road works. This collaboration is expected to instill greater accountability and transparency in the execution of the project. The MoU was signed in the presence of BMC Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani, along with key officials from both BMC and IIT Bombay, including Professor Solomon Debbarma, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering.
The BMC has expressed confidence that IIT Bombay’s technical expertise will significantly enhance the quality control framework for the city’s road network. This move comes on the heels of directives issued by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who has emphasised the urgent need to address the chronic issue of potholes and road deterioration across the state, including Mumbai. The Chief Minister had previously mandated the use of advanced materials, such as Rapid Quick Setting Hardener and MSCT technology, for swift and effective repairs on key roadways, including the Thane-Nashik and Mumbai-Ahmedabad highways. He stressed that any delays or substandard work in these critical repairs should be met with strict accountability measures, including potential legal actions.
Furthermore, CM Shinde directed the authorities to impose traffic restrictions for heavy vehicles during peak hours and called for daily reviews of the progress in road repair works. The decision to bring IIT Bombay on board as a third-party quality controller aligns with these broader initiatives aimed at ensuring a more durable and sustainable road network for Mumbai. By leveraging IIT Bombay’s expertise, BMC aims to establish a benchmark for road construction quality in Mumbai, potentially setting a precedent for other metropolitan cities grappling with similar infrastructure challenges. The initiative underscores the commitment to enhancing the city’s resilience through improved infrastructure, thus facilitating better mobility and economic activity in the long run.
