India Launches First Sustainable Road with Lignin-Based Bio-Bitumen
India has made a significant leap toward sustainable infrastructure with the introduction of lignin-based bio-bitumen, a revolutionary material developed by Praj Industries. This eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil-derived bitumen was first used in the Nagpur-Mansar Bypass project on NH 44, inaugurated by Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways. Praj Industries’ innovation, which uses agricultural waste, primarily lignin, to create bio-bitumen, promises to transform road construction by addressing key challenges like reliance on imported bitumen and high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
This lignin bio-bitumen, developed through Praj’s proprietary technology, not only provides a sustainable alternative but also boasts a significant reduction in GHG emissions—up to 70% less than conventional bitumen. The material can be blended with up to 15% of conventional bitumen, helping to reduce the environmental footprint of road construction projects. Moreover, this innovation aligns with India’s circular economy goals by converting agricultural by-products into valuable resources, offering an opportunity to reduce the country’s dependency on imports. Praj’s breakthrough could save India approximately ₹4,000 to ₹4,500 crore annually in foreign exchange by decreasing the reliance on imported bitumen, which currently accounts for nearly half of the nation’s annual consumption. As bitumen usage in India is projected to hit 100 lakh tons by 2024-25, the widespread adoption of lignin-based bio-bitumen could help significantly curb India’s annual expenditure on imports, which amounts to ₹25,000–30,000 crore.
The successful trials of lignin-based bio-bitumen, including a service road in Gujarat that withstood two and a half years and three monsoons without distress, validate its durability and long-term performance. Nitin Gadkari lauded this innovation for its potential to reduce fossil fuel dependency and enhance India’s self-reliance in infrastructure materials, reinforcing the government’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047. Dr. Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries, emphasized how this development not only aids India’s infrastructure growth but also contributes to the country’s green energy goals. Lignin-based bio-bitumen marks a major step in the evolution of eco-friendly road infrastructure, offering environmental, economic, and long-term benefits. As India continues to push for sustainability in its infrastructure, this innovation will play a pivotal role in building a greener, more self-reliant future. The adoption of such sustainable technologies is not just a necessity but a major opportunity for India to lead in global climate action.
