India’s First National Highway Using Bio-Bitumen Inaugurated

On 21st December, 2024, the Union Transport Minister inaugurated India’s first National Highway constructed using bio-bitumen in the Nagpur-Mansar Bypass project on NH-44 in Nagpur District.

Key Points

Eco-Friendly Construction: The highway uses bio-bitumen made from crop residues (lignin), reducing construction costs, curbing pollution from stubble burning, and generating employment.
Enhanced Durability: Roads made with bio-bitumen are 40% stronger than traditional asphalt roads; a 1-km stretch was built by blending 15% bio-bitumen.
Collaboration: Developed through a partnership between the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI) and biotech firm Praj Industries.
Promotion of Bio-CNG: The Minister encouraged farmers to produce bio-CNG from agricultural waste and bamboo, highlighting its potential in regions like Bhandara-Gondia in Vidarbha.