Bengaluru to Revamp Key Roads with Durable Stone Matrix Asphalt

Quick Summary:

• The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is using stone matrix asphalt (SMA) for road repairs on 87 km out of 145 km of identified high-density corridors in Bengaluru.
• Current makeover projects are underway on key roads such as Magadi road, Mysuru Road, Old Madras Road, HAL Airport Road, and Kanakapura Road.
• SMA is being used to address undulations,potholes,milling needs (removing portions of old asphalt),and level matching for even surface laying.
• Previously used micro-asphalting techniques have proven ineffective for high-density corridors; SMA offers greater durability with resistance to cracks and water seepage but costs more than traditional methods.
• SMA’s design lifespan is estimated at five to six years but could last longer. KG Road in central Bengaluru has remained undamaged as it was asphalted nine years ago using SMA.
• Traffic expert M.N. Sreehari emphasized the importance of quality control while highlighting the advantages of SMA against water damage and heat compared to substandard asphalt mixes.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The BBMP’s decision to adopt stone matrix asphalt extensively signals a shift toward prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term fixes for Bengaluru’s notoriously damaged roads. With its higher durability-reportedly lasting far beyond its design lifespan-and strong resilience against water seepage and vehicular pressures common in high-density areas, this initiative holds promise to alleviate longstanding infrastructure challenges.

However, thes benefits come at an increased financial cost. It will be imperative for BBMP to ensure that quality controls remain stringent during implementation so citizens gain maximum utility from these investments. The use of SMA also brings into focus broader questions about urban planning practices that led to flooding and frequent road digging-the root causes behind much road deterioration.

if successfully implemented across more radial roads as planned by Chief Engineer Lokesh M., the city could set a precedent within India for balancing costlier but durable materials with effective execution in public infrastructure projects.

For more details: The Hindu