The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is on the verge of revolutionizing road maintenance in the country with the exploration of self-healing asphalt technology. This groundbreaking approach holds the promise of effectively addressing the persistent issue of potholes, a significant contributor to road accidents and fatalities in India.
A senior government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that NHAI is considering ingenious and unconventional methods to enhance road durability and tackle pothole-related challenges. The self-healing properties of this innovative asphalt offer a potential long-term solution to the pothole problem, which has plagued Indian roads for years.
Before implementing the technology on a large scale, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to ensure its feasibility and effectiveness. The official emphasized that this technology has the potential to significantly increase the lifespan of roads while minimizing the need for frequent maintenance, thereby reducing traffic disruption.
In 2022, India witnessed a staggering 22.6% increase in road accidents caused by potholes on national highways, resulting in a tragic loss of lives. These alarming statistics underscore the urgent need for innovative solutions to address road infrastructure challenges.
The self-healing asphalt technology operates by integrating small pieces of steel wool into the bitumen, the binding agent in asphalt. This addition renders the bitumen conductive, allowing it to be heated using an induction machine. Through this heating process, the bitumen rebinds with the stones and gravel in the asphalt, effectively repairing cracks and preventing the formation of potholes.
In the 2024-25 budget, the road transport and highways ministry have allocated Rs 2,600 crore for road maintenance, reflecting a consistent commitment to infrastructure improvement. This allocation is in line with previous budgetary estimates and signifies a continued focus on enhancing road quality and safety for all road users across the nation.