Road Projects Stalled by Bitumen Shortage
Two major roadworks in Bengaluru have been delayed significantly due to a sharp increase in bitumen prices and a shortage of bituminous supply, according to senior officials. The projects, which are critical to easing traffic congestion in the city, have missed multiple deadlines set by the authorities, and there is no immediate resolution in sight as contractors continue to wait for the bitumen rate to come down.
Contractors Await Price Drop
The delay is primarily attributed to the high cost of bitumen, a key material for road construction. Contractors have been unwilling to proceed with the work at current rates, citing financial viability. A senior official from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) stated, "We have set several deadlines, but contractors are not ready to start until the bitumen price stabilizes. The situation is unlikely to improve soon." The official added that the price of bitumen has risen by over 30% in the past year, making it difficult for contractors to execute the projects within their original budgets.
Impact on Commuters
The delays are expected to affect thousands of commuters who rely on these roads daily. One of the projects involves widening a key arterial road in the city's northern suburb, while the other is a resurfacing work in the southern part. Both projects were originally scheduled for completion by mid-2026 but have been pushed back indefinitely. Commuters have expressed frustration over the prolonged inconvenience, with many calling for urgent government intervention to resolve the supply issue.
Government Response
In response to the crisis, the state government has held meetings with bitumen suppliers to explore options for price stabilization. However, no concrete measures have been announced yet. A spokesperson for the Public Works Department said, "We are in discussions with suppliers to ensure a steady supply at reasonable rates. The safety and quality of roads remain our priority, and we will not compromise on standards." The government is also considering alternative materials to reduce dependence on bitumen, but such changes would require time and testing.
Future Outlook
Industry experts suggest that the bitumen price may remain high in the near term due to global crude oil price volatility and supply chain disruptions. Until the rates drop, the roadworks in Bengaluru are likely to remain stalled. The BBMP has warned that further delays could lead to cost overruns and additional strain on the city's infrastructure budget. Meanwhile, residents are advised to plan their commutes accordingly and avoid the affected routes where possible.
