NEW DELHI: In view of the spike in bitumen prices and shortage of the key raw material for road projects due to the prolonged West Asia conflict, highways minister Nitin Gadkari has said that his ministry is considering building cement concrete roads instead of bituminous stretches.
Bitumen prices double
Speaking at the launch of the country's first Flex Fuel Vehicle on Thursday, Gadkari said bitumen prices have almost doubled from Rs 45 a kg to Rs 85. He highlighted how domestically produced bio-bitumen can reduce imports and help save foreign exchange.
Bio-bitumen from waste
The minister said 30% bio-bitumen produced from rice straw and other biowaste can be mixed with conventional bitumen. Powder of used rubber tyres and plastic can also be added to conventional bitumen for use in road works. In a veiled political message, Gadkari said all waste can be converted to wealth. “Our govt under Prime Minister Modi is there to clear all the waste,” Gadkari said.
The shift to cement concrete roads could impact the cost and durability of road infrastructure. Cement roads are generally more durable and require less maintenance but have higher initial costs. The ministry is exploring this alternative to mitigate the impact of rising bitumen prices and ensure timely completion of road projects.
