Mandi (Munish Sood)
For the first time, Himachal Pradesh is embracing full-depth reclamation (FDR) technology for road construction, aiming to revolutionise how roads are built and maintained in the state.
This sustainable and cost-effective method is being piloted under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, with Mandi district leading the way.
A 20-km stretch from Ganpati Temple to Kun ka Tar is the testing ground for this advanced approach, which recycles existing asphalt pavement into a stable base layer for new roads.
If successful, experts believe it could become a game-changer for road infrastructure in the state.
What is FDR technology?
FDR is a modern road construction technique that prioritises sustainability and efficiency. Instead of discarding old road materials, FDR reclaims and recycles them, significantly reducing waste and costs.
Key steps in FDR:
- Pulverisation: A road reclaimer pulverises the existing asphalt pavement along with a portion of the underlying layers.
- Stabilisation: The material is mixed with stabilising agents such as Portland cement, bituminous emulsion, or foamed asphalt.
- Compaction: The stabilised material is compacted to form a durable and stable base.
- Final surfacing: Surface layers are added to complete the road.
Benefits of FDR: Game-changer for Himachal
Eco-friendly and sustainable: FDR minimises the environmental impact of road construction by recycling old materials and reducing the need for new resources.
Cost-effective: Managing director of DKS Construction Company, Nitish Sharma, said this technology has reduced road construction costs by up to 40%. “For example, projects that previously costed Rs 100 are now being completed for Rs 60 to Rs 64. Additionally, the work is being completed faster,” he said.
Improved Quality: Roads built with FDR technology are expected to offer better ride quality and longer durability, addressing the frequent wear and tear caused by harsh climatic conditions in Himachal.
Testing the waters in Mandi
According to NPS Chauhan, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department, Mandi Zone, the quality of the road constructed using FDR technology will be assessed after one week. “This is a trial initiative. Based on the results, further decisions will be made about expanding this technology,” he stated.
If the pilot project proves successful, the government plans to extend this technology to 20 additional roads in Mandi and Kullu districts, setting a new benchmark for sustainable infrastructure development in the state.
