Government to Introduce a Policy Enhancing Longevity of National Highways by 20- 25 Years

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is preparing to introduce a new policy aimed at rejuvenating India’s extensive network of aging national highways. The focus is on using a method called ‘white-topping’ to upgrade the roads. This technology involves covering existing asphalt pavements with a layer of Portland cement concrete to enhance their strength and longevity.

Currently, India’s national highway system, stretching over 146,000 kilometers, is struggling with the effects of heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. The new policy aims to tackle these issues by applying a thin concrete layer, which can extend the life of the roads by 20 to 25 years. This method not only strengthens the pavement but also helps prevent common problems like cracks and ruts that affect asphalt roads, particularly under the strain of heavy vehicles in hot climates.

White-topping is already being used in several cities such as Pune, Mumbai, and Delhi. This process involves adding a concrete overlay of 100-200 mm thick on top of old bitumen roads. While this technique is common in other countries, it is relatively new for India.

In addition to extending road life, white-topping has other benefits. Concrete roads reflect more light, improving safety and reducing the need for street lighting. The lighter color of concrete also helps in reducing heat absorption, which can cut down on fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions from vehicles. The improved road conditions and reduced heat impact also contribute to less overall environmental damage.

The Ministry is finalizing the details of this policy and is currently seeking feedback from various stakeholders. By adopting white-topping on a larger scale, the government hopes to better manage and maintain the nation’s road infrastructure, ensuring safer and more durable highways for the future.

Sancheti College

Sancheti College