Shillong: R&DE (BRO) Shillong, the research division of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) under the Ministry of Defence, is spearheading efforts to revolutionise road construction in challenging environments.
The initiative is aimed at addressing the unique demands of the North Eastern and Northern Regions, where harsh weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and snowfall, significantly impact road durability and maintenance costs.
Chief Engineer Rajeev Dua highlighted the pressing challenges, noting that even high-quality roads in these regions often fail to meet their intended lifespan due to the extreme climate. “The frequent need for maintenance not only disrupts connectivity but also imposes a heavy financial burden on state governments,” he said. Dua stressed the critical need for innovative technologies and materials to ensure long-term, sustainable road solutions.
To tackle these issues, R&DE (BRO) has partnered with leading institutions such as the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), as well as several IITs and NITs, combining cutting-edge academic research with practical expertise. These collaborations are focused on developing advanced technologies for road construction, particularly in areas with high rainfall and snowfall. Ongoing research projects are exploring innovative methods for bituminous and concrete construction, with additional proposals in the pipeline.
In addition to academic partnerships, R&DE (BRO) is working closely with industry experts to test new materials designed to enhance the lifespan of bituminous pavements. These advancements not only aim to extend road durability but also to streamline construction processes, reducing time and costs without compromising quality.
The research initiatives at R&DE (BRO) Shillong are expected to benefit the North Eastern States significantly, with broader implications for infrastructure development across the country. By addressing the unique challenges of these regions, the organisation’s efforts promise to improve connectivity and reduce the financial and logistical strain of road maintenance.
Through its innovative approach, R&DE (BRO) is setting a new standard for infrastructure development, benefitting the BRO, state Public Works Departments (PWDs), and the civil engineering community as a whole. These advancements underscore the importance of integrating research and technology to achieve sustainable and cost-effective solutions in road construction.
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