The Times of India 25.08.2010
CM plans concrete ride for Bangaloreans
BANGALORE: Fed up of tarred roads? Well, if the CM has his way, Bangaloreans can soon walk or drive on concrete roads.
Buoyed by the success of the white topping or concrete overlay, which has been used at the Hosur-Madiwala junction, B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday said the government will make major roads in the city concrete.
Yeddyurappa directed the BBMP, BDA and other urban local bodies to identify the major roads so that white-topping can be overlaid.
Inaugurating the Madiwala underpass near Hosur Road, Yeddyurappa said the white-topping roads have higher longevity compared to asphalt ones. "If white-topping is used, then it can last for nearly 20-30 years. Though it may be 20% more expensive, once laid it doesn't require much maintenance. The lifespan of asphalt roads is only three years. We'll initiate this project through the PPP model so that the government is burdened. Many companies have shown interest in doing the white-topping, and the government is negotiating with them,'' he said.
The identified company will be given advertisement-display rights for revenue or it can have own ads. "The government has sufficient funds," the CM added.
