The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is considering ‘white-topping’ technology for rehabilitation and strengthening of ageing national highways, primarily for expansion of the life span of the roads and keeping them pothole-free.
What is White-topping technology
White-topping technology is the covering of an existing asphalt pavement with a layer of Portland cement concrete (PCC).
It also prevents structural cracks and rutting.
Why is white-topping required?
At present, the total length of national highways in the country is approximately 1.5 lakh kilometres.
As per an estimate of the ministry, as two-, four- and six-lane national highways and expressways are being built, the quantum of aged assets is increasing, which warrant rehabilitation to extend their life further.
Unexpected increase in traffic loading, poor maintenance, or improper drainage conditions aggravate the rate of deterioration of ‘flexible pavements’.
Rutting of bituminous pavement is a major issue in the country, given the hot climate with high frequency of heavy truckloads.
