The Deccan Chronicle 02.09.2010
Concrete solution: Improve drains, check leaks on roadsThe recent announcement by the Chief Minister that concrete roads would be laid in heavily congested corridors was met with mixed reactions. Sceptics felt that concrete roads would reduce water seepage and lower the ground water table. But if that was true, why would the developed world make most urban roads concrete?
It is important to understand that water has a detrimental effect both on the asphalt and the road structure itself. The infamous pothole is formed when water seeps into the asphalt and strips it from the aggregate or jelly, due to inadequate surface drainage. This water then proceeds to erode the base and sub-base of the road structure resulting in a loss of support and a cave-in, that we commonly refer to as a pothole.
In the long term, concreting the major arteries that carry significant volumes of traffic will definitely give us longer lasting roads. It will cost more but last for over 20 years with little maintenance.
The immediate solution for the existing asphalted roads is simple. The roadside drainage system must be improved to prevent water logging. A coordinated approach with the BWSSB will ensure that water leaks are fixed before the subgrade erodes and results in potholes. A full depth repair of the existing potholes as compared to a patch fix will ensure a smooth ride for the taxpaying commuter.
(The author is advisor to the government of
Karnataka and a member of the infrastructure sub-committee, CiSTUP, IISc.)
