New Guidelines for Durable Indian Highways

New Delhi: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued new guidelines aimed at enhancing the durability and safety of Indian highways.

The updated standards mandate the use of surfacing materials that can withstand both high temperatures and heavy traffic, potentially eliminating the common issue of pavements cracking and becoming sticky in the summer heat. These new directives require all new highway and expressway projects to select surfacing materials based on temperature variations and axle loads, rather than solely on weight-carrying capacity as previously done. This approach is expected to result in smoother, safer roads with fewer instances of breakages and potholes.

“The changes will modify the specifications for the use of bituminous binders on highways. Different grades of binders will now be specified based on prevailing loading, ambient temperature, rainfall, snowfall, and speed. This will enhance pavement durability and make highways safer to drive on, with minimal or no stretches having breakages or potholes,” explained an official involved in the development.

Bituminous binders, also known as asphalt binders or bitumen, are crucial in road construction, acting as the adhesive that holds together stone, sand, or gravel in asphalt mixtures, creating a durable and flexible surface. The new guidelines provide specific requirements for different mixes to be used depending on traffic load levels and various climatic conditions across India. The task force established by MoRTH has recommended the appropriate types and grades of bitumen or modified bitumen for different climatic zones. These guidelines will apply to all new projects for which bids are now being invited. Additionally, the quality of highways will be evaluated during the re-laying of existing roads.

“There is a noticeable shift towards constructing wider roads, expanding from four lanes to six or eight lanes, reflecting evolving transportation needs and the push for smoother traffic flow and enhanced safety. The government is focusing on new road construction, expressways, dedicated elevated corridors, and grade elevators to reduce travel time,” the official noted.

The emphasis on quality construction aims to provide durable pavements suitable for all climatic conditions, capable of withstanding heavy traffic volumes without deteriorating. The use of improved pavement materials is also expected to extend the lifespan of expressways and significantly reduce maintenance costs. In fiscal year 2025, the government plans to award contracts for 10,000-12,000 kilometres of highways. All these projects will adhere to the new bitumen specifications outlined in the latest circular, ensuring the construction of resilient and safe roadways.

This strategic move by the government not only addresses immediate infrastructural challenges but also sets a precedent for future road construction projects, prioritising long-term durability and safety on Indian highways.