The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is exploring an innovative technology called self-healing asphalt to tackle the persistent problem of potholes on roads across the country. Potholes are a major cause of road accidents and fatalities in India, and this new approach could revolutionize road maintenance, making roads more durable and safer for commuters.
According to a senior government official who spoke to ET anonymously, self-healing asphalt has the potential to significantly improve road durability and reduce the need for frequent maintenance. The technology involves embedding small steel wool pieces in the bitumen, the binding agent used in asphalt roads. This modification makes the bitumen electrically conductive, allowing it to be heated by an induction machine. When heated, the bitumen can flow and rebind with the aggregate, sealing cracks and healing the road surface, thus preventing pothole formation.
Before implementing this technology on a large scale, the government plans to conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to assess its economic viability and operational effectiveness. This preliminary step is crucial to ensure that the investment in this technology yields long-term benefits for road maintenance and safety.
Recent statistics highlight the urgency of finding solutions to the pothole problem. In 2022, there was a 22.6% increase in road accidents caused by potholes on national highways, resulting in 1,856 fatalities—a 25.3% increase from the previous year. These alarming figures underscore the need for effective measures to address road maintenance issues and enhance road safety.
To support initiatives like self-healing asphalt, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has allocated Rs 2,600 crore for road maintenance in the fiscal year 2024-25. This budget allocation reflects the government’s commitment to improving road infrastructure and safety through innovative solutions. It also represents a slight increase from the previous year’s budget of Rs 2,573.66 crore, indicating continued investment in road maintenance and safety initiatives.
Implementing self-healing asphalt technology could have significant benefits for road users across India. By reducing the frequency of potholes and minimizing the need for maintenance, it can contribute to smoother and safer journeys for commuters. Additionally, it has the potential to save costs associated with frequent road repairs and reduce traffic disruptions caused by maintenance activities.
However, the success of this technology will depend on various factors, including its performance in real-world conditions, its long-term durability, and its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional road maintenance methods. Therefore, conducting thorough research and analysis before widespread adoption is essential to ensure that the technology meets the needs of India’s road infrastructure.
In conclusion, the exploration of self-healing asphalt technology by NHAI represents a significant step towards addressing the pothole problem and improving road safety in India. With proper planning and evaluation, this innovative approach has the potential to transform road maintenance practices and enhance the overall quality of India’s road network.