Mumbai’s BMC Introduces Hi-Tech Solution for Pothole Woes with Infrared Road Repair Machines

Innovative Technology Set to Revolutionize Pothole Repairs in Mumbai

Mumbai: In a significant step towards addressing the city’s chronic pothole problem, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is gearing up to acquire an advanced infrared road repair machine. This move comes a decade after the BMC’s controversial procurement of jet pitching machines, which were ultimately underutilized for pothole repairs. The new technology promises more efficient and durable road repairs, marking a notable upgrade in the city’s infrastructure maintenance efforts.

Infrared Road Repair Machine: A Game-Changer

The BMC has initiated a tender process to obtain the infrared road repair machine, a technology that has already demonstrated success in Pune and Bengaluru. According to BMC officials, this machine ensures precise filling of potholes and significantly reduces repair time. The process involves loading the machine with asphalt-based material, which then automatically cleans the damaged surface and fills it with asphalt. This method prevents the formation of bumps that are often associated with manual repairs.

“We need to fill asphalt-based material into the machine, which will then clean the damaged surface and fill it with asphalt automatically. Additionally, it will not create bumps on the road like manual repairs. We have invited tenders for a two-year operation and one-year extra maintenance after the defect liability period. That is why we haven’t estimated any costs,” officials stated.

A Decade of Pothole Repair Challenges

In 2009, the BMC procured three Inject pothole patching machines at a cost of over ₹60 crore. However, these machines were never fully utilized, leading to controversy and criticism. Each year, the BMC experiments with new methods to repair potholes, particularly during the monsoon season. This year, the BMC is using mastic asphalt for pre-monsoon repairs, and plans to employ both hot mix and cold mix asphalt during the monsoon.

A History of Technological Trials

Over the past 14 years, the BMC has experimented with various technologies for pothole repairs. These include jet patching machine technology (2009-10), Austrian and Israeli asphalt mix, rapid hardening concrete, and reactive asphalt. For pre-monsoon work, the BMC primarily uses hot mix asphalt. Additionally, both hot mix and cold mix technologies are traditionally used for pothole repair, with cold mix asphalt being particularly useful during continuous rain.

Looking Ahead: Infrared Technology

The introduction of the infrared road repair machine is anticipated to be a significant improvement over previous methods. This technology promises to deliver more effective and long-lasting repairs, ensuring smoother roads for Mumbai’s residents. The BMC’s commitment to adopting advanced infrastructure solutions is a positive step towards mitigating the city’s perennial pothole issues.

By integrating this high-tech solution, the BMC aims to provide a more reliable and efficient approach to road maintenance, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for Mumbai’s citizens. As the city braces for the upcoming monsoon season, the deployment of the infrared road repair machine is a promising development in the ongoing battle against potholes.