Through the insights of industry experts and the vision of key stakeholders, we uncover the vital role of fast-track road construction in shaping India’s landscape and propelling it towards a brighter tomorrow.

India’s ambitious plan to revamp its national roadways constitutes a significant step forward in modernisation. By spearheading the construction of cutting-edge, high-speed access-controlled roadways, the nation aims to lay the foundation for a globally acclaimed transportation network by 2037. This visionary endeavour promises to bolster efficiency and dramatically reduce logistical overheads. With a steadfast gaze fixed on the horizon of achieving developed nation status by 2047, a senior government official underscores the nation’s unwavering dedication to this transformative mission.

At the forefront of this paradigm shift stands the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), a beacon of innovation and sustainability in road construction. Drawing insights from industry experts, we uncover the pivotal elements and success stories behind fast-track road construction. These narratives underscore the paramount importance of this initiative for India’s future prosperity and growth trajectory.

Roadmap to efficiency

Established under the Act of 1988, the NHAI has evolved into a formidable entity responsible for executing the National Highways Development Project (NHDP) and other significant road initiatives. Although its substantial activities began in the early 2000s, the NHAI has achieved remarkable milestones. The organisation aims to construct an impressive 45 kilometres of road per day, highlighting the volume, quality, and sustainability of these projects.

India’s logistics costs currently stand at about 15 percent of the total import-export cost, starkly contrasting the 6-7 percent in Europe and the 9 percent in China. Enhancing road infrastructure can significantly reduce these costs, making India more competitive globally. The NHAI’s ambitious targets and innovative strategies are crucial in realising this vision.

Navigating roadblocks

Apoorva Modi, Vice President of Technical Operations, Avijeet Agencies Pvt. Ltd, with its expertise in construction, provides a detailed view of the technical and practical aspects of road construction. He emphasises the importance of sustainable construction practices that expedite the building process and ensure long-term durability with minimal environmental impact.

One of the significant challenges in road construction is land acquisition and regulatory approvals. Modi highlights the necessity of having at least 90 percent of the required land ready before starting any project. This preparation helps in avoiding delays and cost overruns. Additionally, obtaining necessary approvals from bodies like the Environment Ministry and the Railways ensures smooth project execution.

State governments play a critical role in this process. Their active involvement in facilitating land acquisition and providing local support is often the key to successful project completion. Effective coordination between state and national agencies is, therefore, paramount.

Bridging the gap

A key strategy employed by the NHAI is the utilisation of public-private partnerships (PPPs). These partnerships bring substantial private sector investment and expertise, which are crucial for the timely and efficient execution of large-scale projects. The Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) and Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) are two primary models used in these partnerships.

The BOT model, which involves private entities building, operating, and then transferring the infrastructure back to the government, has been widely successful. More recently, the HAM model has gained traction. It combines elements of BOT and traditional engineering procurement construction (EPC) models, ensuring a balanced distribution of risk and reward between the public and private sectors. This innovative approach has led to the completion of numerous high-quality road projects across the country.

Driving innovation

The deployment of advanced machinery and technology is instrumental in fast-track road construction. Puneet Vidyarthi, Head of Marketing and Business Development – India & SAARC, CASE Construction Equipment, highlights how CASE India’s compactors, particularly the large and small vibratory rollers, significantly enhance productivity and efficiency. These compactors are designed to handle diverse terrains and environmental conditions, ensuring consistent drum-to-ground contact even on uneven surfaces. Their robust climbing power and powerful centrifugal forces ensure optimal density and uniformity in road layers, resulting in stronger, more durable roads that withstand heavy traffic and adverse weather conditions.

Meanwhile, Vikas Sharma, CEO and Founder of Genesis Infra Project Consultant, introduces an innovative approach with Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) technology, customised for Indian conditions. This advanced technique, which uses cellulose fibres, has demonstrated remarkable durability, with projects completed nine years ago still not requiring maintenance. Implementing SMA technology has significantly improved project efficiency, reduced maintenance frequency, and enhanced pavement longevity, ultimately leading to cost savings and better road quality for end users.

Emphasising the transformative power of technological advancements in construction, V G Sakthikumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Schwing Stetter, underscores how Schwing Stetter’s equipment, infused with IoT and cloud capabilities, enables real-time monitoring and management. This digital integration empowers contractors to optimise operations and bolster efficiency. Moreover, their concrete pumps, indispensable for road projects, offer efficiency and performance advantages, ensuring consistent and high-quality concrete placement, thereby expediting project completion.

In discussing advanced features of the AJAX Slip-form Paver, ideal for highway and road construction, Shubhabrata Saha, MD and CEO of AJAX Engineering, sheds light on its precise sensors, robust control system, and user-friendly display. These attributes collectively enhance operational efficiency and safety. Furthermore, the paver’s ability to tackle intricate construction tasks through pre-programmed steering modes and simplified diagnosis and troubleshooting minimises downtime and maintenance costs, solidifying its position as a premier choice for modern road construction projects.

Burnishing India’s Roads

Thanks to the concerted efforts of the NHAI and its partners, the future of road construction in India looks promising. By focusing on sustainable development, leveraging public-private partnerships, and utilising advanced equipment and innovative techniques, India is poised to revolutionise its road infrastructure.

The impact of these developments will be far-reaching. Reduced logistics costs will enhance the competitiveness of Indian goods in global markets. Improved connectivity will spur economic growth in remote regions, fostering inclusive development. A robust road network will provide the foundation for a more connected and prosperous India.

Experts champion fast-track road construction, which is not just about building roads. It’s about paving the way for a sustainable, inclusive, and economically vibrant future. The success of these projects hinges on meticulous planning, effective collaboration, and flawless execution.