MORTH Minister inaugurates India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch

In a landmark move toward sustainable infrastructure, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, inaugurated India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur (Maharashtra). The event was attended by Praj Industries President Atul Mulay and officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

The stretch is lignin-based bio-bitumen technology by Praj Industries in collaboration with CSIR-CRRI, NHAI, and Oriental. This new road is a significant step forward in India’s efforts to address the environmental and supply chain challenges posed by traditional bitumen production.

The project highlights the growing importance of green technologies in road construction, as India ramps up its infrastructure development while striving to minimize environmental impact. The introduction of this bio-bitumen-based road marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and self-reliant industrial future, setting the stage for similar eco-friendly initiatives in the country’s upcoming infrastructure projects.

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The use of lignin as a sustainable binder marks a breakthrough in flexible pavement technology, addressing bitumen scarcity and reducing India’s reliance on imports, which currently account for 50% of supply.

Nitin Gadkari said, “This innovation supports global sustainability goals by generating revenue for bio-refineries, mitigating stubble burning, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen. Leveraging abundant lignocellulosic biomass, it aligns with India’s vision for sustainable industrial growth.”

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