State Launches Pilot for Reclaimed Asphalt Technology in Roads

Rapid Summary

• The public Works Department (PWD) of Kerala will pilot Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) technology for road construction.
• RAP involves milling the top surface of existing roads and reusing it to create a new road surface.
• The pilot project is planned for the Killipalam-Pravachambalam road in Thiruvananthapuram.
• A meeting chaired by PWD Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas, attended by IIT Madras experts, Kerala Highway Research Institute (KHRI) officials, and others, finalized the decision.
• Studies conducted by KHRI in collaboration with IIT Madras concluded that RAP technology is suitable for Kerala’s conditions.
• Benefits highlighted include reduced use of raw materials, minimized environmental impact compared to existing practices, and potential cost savings while constructing longer-lasting roads.

Indian opinion Analysis

The adoption of RAP technology marks a significant step forward for sustainable infrastructure progress in Kerala. By incorporating reclaimed materials into road construction processes, this approach could alleviate environmental stress caused by excessive consumption of virgin resources while potentially enhancing cost-efficiency-a critical concern in public infrastructure projects.

The involvement of reputed institutions such as IIT Madras lends credibility to this effort; rigorous research backing ensures feasibility within Kerala’s regional climate and terrain conditions-an essential factor when introducing newer technologies.

if accomplished,this trial could set a benchmark,encouraging similar initiatives across other states in India grappling with resource constraints and aging infrastructure challenges. Though, consistent monitoring will be crucial during implementation to assess longevity outcomes versus customary methods.

Read More: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/pwd-to-pilot-reclaimed-asphalt-pavement-tech-for-road-construction/article69956527.ece