BMC's last ditch effort at road repair to cost Rs 375 cr

For its fresh project to repair and develop city roads, the civic body will be introducing new software and eco-friendly raw materials

For its fresh project to repair and develop city roads, the civic body will be introducing new software and eco-friendly raw materialsu00a0

After drawing flak for irregularities in the Rs 550 crore road redevelopment project, the civic authority is leaving no stone unturned to salvage city roads, which have been left scarred and pockmarked in the wake of the monsoons.u00a0 In the run up to the upcoming elections, the BMC is undertaking the second phase of its road development project in the city, in course of which it will apply state-of-the-art technologies and software to rectify damaged roads.


Saving face: The embarrassed BMC will now be trying to mend the
bad roads by using eco-friendly materials. File pic

Tenders have been floated for contracts worth Rs 375 crore.u00a0

The BMC is making it mandatory for all contractors to install a software that provides details about the accurate measurement of raw materials to be used in the construction of roads. This software, which was developed by the firm Probity Solutions, will ensure that the contractors use accurate quantities of raw materials, so that the roads are constructed uniformly.u00a0

Besides this, the BMC has also identified four major roads sans underground utility wires, which will be repaired using an eco-friendly material called Ultra Thin White Topping (UTWT). The four roads -- one on G V Scheme no 1, one opposite the MHADA colony, Mandlik Road and Tayabji Road in the A ward -- were chosen as they will not be subjected to constant digging and trenching. An official from the road dept said, "We plan to apply an eco-friendly material to the major roads, and this will reduce the total cost by 15 per cent."

BMC's Standing Committee Chairman Rahul Shewale said, "We will be making it mandatory for contractors to install the software at their plants. The BMC will install it for those who are unable to do so, but in exchange for a fee. Action will be taken against those who fail to abide by the norms." He added that the cost of the software has not been fixed, but would possibly run into a couple of crores.

S Badve, chief engineer (roads) said, "We have identified 544 internal roads in 24 wards and floated tenders, which will be accepted till Oct 17. Work is expected to begin from November."

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!