The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued new guidelines mandating the use of temperature and traffic-resistant materials for road construction.
This initiative aims to address the perennial issue of pavements and roads cracking and becoming sticky under intense summer heat. The revised guidelines stipulate that surfacing materials for all new highway and expressway projects must be selected based on both pavement temperature and axle load variations. This represents a shift from the traditional practice of determining materials solely based on weight-carrying capacity.
“The changes would alter the specifications on the use of bituminous binders for highways. Different grades of binders will now be specified based on prevailing loading conditions, ambient temperature, rainfall, snowfall, and speed. This will make pavements more durable and highways safer, with fewer instances of breakages or potholes,” explained one of the officials involved in the development. Bituminous binders, also known as asphalt binders or bitumen, play a crucial role in road construction. They act as the adhesive that holds together the stone, sand, or gravel in asphalt mixtures, creating a durable and flexible surface. The new guidelines aim to optimize the use of these binders by considering the specific climatic and traffic conditions of different regions across India.
MoRTH has also provided detailed specifications for various asphalt mixes, tailored to handle specific levels of traffic load and different climatic zones. These specifications take into account ambient temperature, rainfall, snowfall, and traffic loading intensity, ensuring that the chosen materials are best suited to the local conditions. The formulation of these guidelines was guided by the recommendations of a task force constituted by MoRTH. This task force was specifically tasked with recommending the appropriate type and grade of bitumen or modified bitumen for different climatic zones across the country. Their input has been instrumental in developing a robust framework that promises to significantly enhance the quality and safety of India’s road infrastructure.
By incorporating these new standards, the government aims to create highways that can better withstand the diverse and often harsh environmental conditions prevalent in India. This initiative not only promises to extend the lifespan of the roads but also aims to provide a safer and smoother driving experience for motorists. The implementation of these guidelines marks a proactive step by the Indian government to address the infrastructural challenges posed by climate and traffic. As the new regulations come into effect, they are expected to significantly reduce the incidence of road deterioration, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and safety of the country’s transportation network.
