In a groundbreaking move towards sustainable infrastructure, India is revolutionizing its road construction by incorporating recycled rubber from end-of-life tires. This innovative approach not only tackles the country’s growing problem of waste rubber but also creates roads that are stronger, more durable, and environmentally friendly.
The technology, known as Crumb Rubber Modified Bitumen (CRMB), involves blending fine particles of recycled rubber with hot bitumen, the asphalt binder used in road construction. This process enhances the physical and chemical properties of the binder, resulting in a road surface that is more resilient to extreme weather conditions, heavy traffic loads, and temperature fluctuations.
Benefits of CRMB Roads:
- Enhanced Durability: CRMB roads are proven to be more resistant to cracks and ruts, which are common issues in traditional roads, significantly extending their lifespan.
- Environmental Sustainability: By repurposing a major source of waste, India is preventing millions of discarded tires from ending up in landfills, where they pose a serious environmental and fire hazard.
- Reduced Noise Pollution: The elastic properties of the rubber in the asphalt mix help absorb sound, making these roads quieter for both drivers and residents in surrounding areas, a crucial benefit in heavily populated urban centers.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: The increased durability of CRMB roads means they require less frequent repairs and resurfacing, leading to substantial long-term savings for the government.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), led by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, has been a major proponent of this initiative. The government has made the use of recycled materials mandatory for several new highway projects. While plastic waste has been the focus of earlier mandates, the push to use crumb rubber from tires marks a significant expansion of India’s “waste-to-wealth” strategy.
This initiative is a testament to India’s commitment to using cutting-edge technology to solve its infrastructure and environmental challenges simultaneously, paving the way for a cleaner and more resilient future.
