The Times of India        09.12.2010

JDA to pave way for concrete roads

JAIPUR. A cement manufacturer presented a proposal for construction of concrete roads, that he claimed, will last for 30 years. The technique, however, is nearly twice as expensive as the traditional method of construction.

Considering the frequent damage to roads that has left the civic bodies red-faced, the Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) has decided to go ahead with the proposal on a trial basis.

"Over the next few days, we would identify a location for the company to develop a patch of concrete road on a trial basis. If contended, the proposal will be taken up for further consideration" said S K Pancholi, director (engineering), JDA.

Under the proposed technique called "Thin White Topping", nearly 15 cm of the bituminous layer of the stretch will be removed, and in its place, concrete will be laid. It will cost nearly Rs 87 lakh for development of a kilometre long two-lane road. However, the road, as per the contractor's claims, will not require maintenance, and will be more durable than the existing roads.

An inefficient drainage system though could prove to be a challenge for the concrete roads. "The city lacks a proper drainage system that can threaten to damage the concrete roads, especially during monsoon," a JDA official said.

While the JDA officials are yet to consider similar presentations from other cement companies and developers, an in principle' decision has been taken to promote construction of concrete roads. Jaipur development commissioner, Sudhansh Pant has also instructed the officials to work in this direction, after its success in other cities.

The JDA has earmarked nearly 25 locations in the city that are frequently damaged due to water accumulation. Of these, work has been initiated on nearly seven locations to develop patches of concrete roads. A survey is also being conducted to identify more such locations.