Bhubaneswar: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said that India aims to utilise 100 per cent of its solid waste in road construction by 2027, marking a major push towards sustainable and environmentally responsible infrastructure development.
Speaking about ongoing initiatives, Gadkari said that around 80 lakh tonnes of waste have already been processed and used in highway projects across the country. This includes prominent stretches such as the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway, where waste materials have been incorporated into construction.
The initiative integrates waste management with road development, using materials such as plastic waste, fly ash, steel slag, and construction debris to improve road quality while reducing environmental burden. According to officials, these materials enhance durability and help lower construction costs.
The approach is expected to significantly reduce urban solid waste accumulation, ease pressure on landfills, and contribute to cleaner cities. It also aligns with the government’s broader focus on green infrastructure and circular economy practices in public works.
Experts say the move reflects India’s growing emphasis on sustainable engineering solutions as infrastructure expansion continues at scale.
-OdishaAge
