Author: Team AICL

Road bitumen serves as the binder that holds asphalt mixtures together, providing strength, flexibility, and resistance to environmental factors. To ensure the longevity and reliability of roads, it is imperative to subject road bitumen to rigorous quality control measures. These tests enable us to evaluate the characteristics and properties of bitumen, ensuring that it meets the required specifications and standards.

Throughout this blog, we will delve into five key tests that are commonly performed during road bitumen quality control processes. 

From determining the viscosity and penetration of bitumen to assessing its softening point and elastic recovery, these tests provide valuable insights into the material’s performance and behaviour in various conditions.

Why Should Bitumen Be Tested For Performance?

To assess the performance of road bitumen accurately, it is essential to conduct several key tests as part of the quality control process. These tests play a crucial role in evaluating the material’s properties and behaviour, providing valuable insights that enable engineers to make informed decisions and ensure superior performance on the road.

• The primary objective of these tests is to determine whether the road bitumen meets the required specifications and standards for its intended application. 

• By conducting these tests, engineers can gain a comprehensive understanding of the material’s characteristics and performance capabilities, allowing them to select the most appropriate bitumen grade and optimise road construction processes.

• The insights obtained from these tests contribute to various aspects of road performance. They help engineers assess factors such as durability, stability, resistance to deformation, and compatibility with different weather conditions and traffic loads. This information is vital for designing road structures that can withstand the anticipated environmental and operational challenges, ensuring long-lasting, safe, and reliable roads.

5 Quality Tests To Ensure High Bitumen Performance

Let’s explore the five crucial tests commonly performed to evaluate road bitumen:

1. Viscosity Test:

Viscosity is a fundamental property of road bitumen that determines its flow characteristics at different temperatures. This test measures the resistance of bitumen to flow and provides information about its handling and workability during the construction process. 

By assessing the viscosity at specific temperatures, engineers can ensure that the selected bitumen grade is suitable for the anticipated climate conditions and application methods.

2. Penetration Test:

The penetration test measures the hardness and consistency of road bitumen. It determines the depth in tenths of a millimetre to which a standard needle penetrates the bitumen sample under specified conditions of time, load, and temperature. 

This test helps determine the bitumen’s ability to resist deformation under traffic loads and its suitability for specific road applications.

3. Softening Point Test:

The softening point test determines the temperature at which road bitumen softens under specified conditions. It provides crucial information about the thermal stability and performance of the material. By knowing the softening point, engineers can ensure that the bitumen will maintain its integrity and structural strength at the expected operating temperatures, preventing rutting or deformation on the road surface.

4. Ductility Test:

The ductility test measures the bitumen’s ability to stretch without breaking or cracking. It determines the elongation properties and flexibility of the material, indicating its resistance to cracking under varying temperature and traffic conditions. This test is particularly important for regions with extreme temperature fluctuations, as it ensures the bitumen can withstand thermal stresses without compromising road integrity.

5. Water Content Test:

To prevent foaming of bitumen during heating, it is crucial to minimise its water content. This is determined by mixing a known bitumen sample with a water-free petroleum distillate, heating it, and collecting and weighing the condensed water. The allowable maximum water content should not exceed 0.2% by weight. 

This test ensures that bitumen remains free from excess moisture, preserving its desired properties and ensuring quality in road construction projects.

Takeaway

As the demand for robust road networks continues to grow, it is essential to prioritise the quality control of road bitumen. By implementing these tests and adhering to specified standards, we can ensure the delivery of superior road performance, cost-effectiveness, and increased longevity.

In conclusion, the quality control of road bitumen is essential for achieving high-quality infrastructure outcomes. By understanding the significance of each test and its impact on road performance, we can ensure that our road networks are built to withstand the demands of the future. Let us continue to prioritise and innovate in road bitumen quality control, paving the way for safer, more resilient, and sustainable roads for generations to come.

Tar and bitumen are viscous, black, and sticky substances derived from crude oil. They have been used in construction for centuries due to their exceptional properties. Tar is a byproduct of coal or wood distillation, while bitumen is obtained from crude oil refining. Both tar and bitumen are highly adhesive and waterproof, making them ideal for a wide range of construction applications.

From road construction and roofing to protective coatings and pavement, tar and bitumen have proven to be indispensable components of modern construction practices.

While traditional uses of these materials have been prevalent for centuries, recent advancements have expanded their potential and opened up new possibilities. By exploring emerging techniques, materials, and case studies, we aim to shed light on the cutting-edge innovations that are transforming the construction landscape.

Traditional Uses of Tar and Bitumen in Construction

To truly appreciate the significance of tar and bitumen in modern construction, it is essential to explore their historical roots. The utilisation of these materials dates back centuries, with evidence of their usage found in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley. In these early civilizations, tar and bitumen were primarily used for waterproofing, sealing, and adhesive purposes.

Common Applications in Traditional Construction:

• Road Construction and Maintenance: The application of tar or bitumen in road construction improves resistance to wear and tear, enhances waterproofing properties, and increases overall longevity.

• Roofing and Waterproofing: Tar and bitumen have been widely employed in traditional roofing systems for their exceptional waterproofing capabilities.

• Pavement and Flooring: In traditional construction, tar and bitumen have been used in pavement and flooring applications. For example, asphalt, a mixture of bitumen and aggregates, is commonly used to create driveways, parking lots, and walkways due to its durability and ability to withstand heavy traffic. 

From roads and roofs to pavements, bitumen’s versatility and durability have stood the test of time. However, as we progress further into the blog, we will explore how innovative applications are revolutionising the way we perceive and utilise tar and bitumen in the modern construction industry.

Innovative Applications of Tar and Bitumen

Tar and bitumen, traditionally known for their use in road construction and roofing, have found new and exciting applications in various industries. Here are five innovative uses of tar and bitumen:

1. Energy-efficient solutions:

Tar and bitumen can be utilised in the development of energy-efficient systems, such as cool roofs. Cool roofs coated with reflective bitumen help reduce heat absorption, lowering energy consumption for cooling buildings.

2. High-performance membranes for water management:

Tar and bitumen-based membranes are used in waterproofing systems, providing excellent protection against water leakage in structures. These membranes are commonly used in basements, roofs, and other areas prone to water damage.

3. Noise reduction and vibration control:

Tar and bitumen can be incorporated into soundproofing materials to minimise noise pollution and control vibrations. These applications are particularly valuable in buildings located near busy roads, airports, or industrial areas.

4. Green infrastructure and urban heat island mitigation:

Tar and bitumen contribute to the development of green infrastructure projects.

Green roofs and permeable pavements constructed with these materials help mitigate urban heat island effects and promote sustainable urban environments.

These innovative applications demonstrate the versatility of tar and bitumen, enabling them to address various challenges in construction, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability. As research and development continue, we can expect even more exciting applications of these materials in the future.

Takeaway

The innovative applications of tar and bitumen have expanded their utility beyond conventional uses. As technology and research continue to advance, we can expect further advancements and discoveries in harnessing the full potential of these materials. From self-repairing structures to energy-efficient solutions and sustainable infrastructure, tar and bitumen are at the forefront of modern construction, shaping a more resilient, environmentally conscious future.

History of Asphalt

Asphalt is a natural substance that is formed by the breakdown of aggregate, bitumen and sand. The material is produced by the action of heat and pressure on crude oil, which causes lighter fractions to evaporate and condense into liquid hydrocarbons.

Asphalt in Ancient History

• The first use of asphalt was recorded in ancient Egypt by using natural bitumen deposits found in the Middle East. They used this material to waterproof boats and buildings as well as create waterproof paints for wall paintings.
• The Egyptians were also aware that asphalt could be used as a fuel source, but they didn’t do much with this knowledge until later on in history when Europeans began using asphalt for paving roads and sidewalks.

Asphalt In Modern Times

• Asphalt roads had their beginnings in the early 1800s when the first asphalt roads were constructed.
• The world’s first modern asphalt road was paved in Paris in 1824 using natural asphalt to cover the Champs-Elysee.
• At the same time, roads were also being built in Scotland using broken stones that were later joined with hot tar to create a tarmacadam-like surface. The use of hot tar helped to reduce dust and make maintenance easier while extending the life of the road. These early roads served as a precursor to the massive motorway construction projects of the twentieth century.
• With the rise of automation and mechanisation, the goal of asphalt production in the latter half of the twentieth century was to improve quality, which led to the establishment of the National Center for Asphalt Technology in 1986.

Use cases of Asphalt In Modern Construction

Asphalt has a wide range of use cases in modern construction, making it one of the most versatile materials in the industry.

Here are some use cases of asphalt in modern construction:

1. Roadways: The most common and well-known use of asphalt is in the construction of roadways. Asphalt is used to create durable, long-lasting road surfaces that can withstand heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions.
2. Parking lots: Similar to roadways, asphalt is used to pave parking lots. It provides a smooth and durable surface that can withstand heavy loads and constant use.
3. Airport runways: Airports use high-durability asphalt mixtures for their runways. Asphalt provides a smooth surface that allows aircraft to take off and land safely.
4. Athletic tracks: Asphalt is also used for the construction of athletic tracks. It provides a smooth and shock-absorbing surface that is ideal for running and other athletic activities.
5. Bike paths: Asphalt is a popular choice for bike paths and trails. It provides a smooth surface that is easy to ride on and can withstand heavy use.
6. Roofing: Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material. They are durable, fire-resistant, and can last up to 30 years.
7. Waterproofing: Asphalt is also used as a waterproofing material. It is applied to foundations, walls, and roofs to prevent water from seeping into buildings.
8. Bridge decks: Asphalt overlays are used to repair and protect bridge decks. The asphalt provides a smooth and durable surface that can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.

Evolution of Asphalt In Construction

Today, asphalt has been greatly improved to be more efficient, environmentally friendly, long-lasting, and smoother, bearing little resemblance to its early uses as a seaming material for baskets or road surfaces.

Despite its evolution, the progress made in the development of this ubiquitous substance over the last 100 years is nothing short of remarkable.

In modern construction, asphalt is used as an adhesive for asphalt shingles and roof membranes. It’s also used as a waterproofing membrane on driveways and patios, as well as for sealing joints between concrete slabs and driveways.

Asphalt is a product of the ancient world and has always been popular due to its unique properties. Today, asphalt is used in almost every industrialised country and is utilised in a variety of ways, whether it’s as a building material or as an adhesive.

Did you know that there’s a type of paint that can protect your home from both water damage and harsh weather conditions?

It is known as Bituminous Paint.

Available in two forms – interior and exterior – this paint can be used to safeguard your home’s walls from mildew growth and wind, rain, snow, and sun damage. And with its long-lasting quality, you’ll save money in the long run compared to other sealers.

In this blog, we will know in detail why bitumen paint coating is the right choice for every home.

Uses of Bituminous Paint

Bituminous paints are used for many purposes and can be applied to a wide range of surfaces. They offer excellent protection from the elements, as well as provide a high level of durability.

Available in two different forms, interior and exterior, bituminous paint can add an extra layer of protection to your walls and surfaces, guarding them against the damaging effects of water, mildew, wind, rain, snow, and sun exposure.

1. The interior form of bituminous paint is designed to protect the walls inside your home from water damage and mildew growth. This type of paint can be especially useful in areas of your home that are prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, basements, and laundry rooms.

2. On the other hand, the exterior form of bituminous paint is specifically intended to protect the outside of your home from harsh weather conditions. The paint can be applied to your home’s exterior walls and surfaces, providing an extra layer of defence against wind, rain, snow, and sun damage. 

By using bituminous paint on your home’s exterior, you can extend the life of your siding, roof, and other exterior features, and save money on costly repairs.

3. Bituminous paint is also helpful in weatherproofing steelwork such as bridges and buildings as well as wooden structures such as fences and gates.

 Why Bituminous Paint Coatings Are Perfect For Your Home?

Here are some of the reasons why bituminous paint coatings are perfect for your home:

1. Bituminous paint coatings are incredibly versatile

Bitumen is a versatile material used for waterproofing or protecting against dampness and humidity. It has great adhesive qualities, extreme durability, and is easy to apply.

2. Bituminous Paints are affordable

You can get a professional-looking finish without breaking the bank with bituminous paint coatings. These products are available in a variety of colours, so you’ll be able to choose one that matches your house perfectly. The cost will depend on the type of coating you choose and where you live, but many people find that bituminous paints are more affordable than other types of exterior paints.

3. Bituminous paint coatings are durable

Bituminous paints utilise a binder system that contains asphalt and clay minerals, which makes them extremely durable. This means that they can withstand wear and tear over time without losing their colour or lustre. The high-quality binders used in these products also make them resistant to mildew growth and mould growth. 

You don’t have to worry about any damage caused by water or moisture because the paint will not peel off or chip easily. This makes it a great choice for homeowners who want their homes to look new for years to come!

4. Bituminous Paint is easy to use

Bituminous paints are easy to apply, so you don’t need any special skills or equipment to get great results. If you’re not sure how to apply these paints correctly, there are plenty of tutorials online that can help show you how it’s done. After applying the coating to your home’s exterior, all that’s left is waiting for it to dry and then enjoying all the benefits!

Takeaway

In conclusion, bituminous paint is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to protect their property from water damage, mildew growth, and harsh weather conditions. With its ease of use and cost-saving benefits, bituminous paint is a reliable and effective coating that can provide lasting protection for both the interior and exterior of your home. Invest in bituminous paint today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is well-protected.

Birth of Agarwal Industrial Corporation Ltd 

India in 1995 was a country in need of a transportation revolution. The roads were sparse and the connectivity was poor, making travel and transportation a challenging task.

This situation was causing a significant strain on the economy, constraining the movement of goods and people, and hindering progress in several sectors. 

 It was then that AICL – Agarwal Industrial Corporation Ltd  was founded with a mission to pave the way for a better India. With a vision of a connected and prosperous nation, AICL set out to change the landscape of the country. Their efforts were soon rewarded as they gained the trust and confidence of their customers in the infrastructure industry. 

From its inception, AICL was committed to providing high-quality bitumen solutions that would enable the country to achieve its infrastructure potential. The company’s approach was to focus on the needs of its customers, understanding their requirements and providing customised solutions that would meet their specific needs. This customer-centric approach helped AICL build a strong reputation in the industry, and it soon gained the trust and confidence of its customers.

How AICL Paved Its Way To Become an Industry Leader

Within a year of their inception, AICL transformed into a Public Limited Company, solidifying their position as an industry leader. 

The year 2002 unfolded the opportunity for AICL to venture into Bitumen manufacturing and processing business.

 It opened offices at 11 places across India, including 6 bitumen manufacturing plants, 5 bulk storage facilities and provision for the import of bulk bitumen at 6 port locations.

 It also set up in-house Ashok Leyland’s authorised service centres in Mumbai, for the maintenance of tankers  during this period.

Throughout their journey, AICL has remained committed to their mission of serving the country and building lasting relationships with their customers. Today, AICL is recognized as a trailblazer in the bitumen and infrastructure transportation industry, and their legacy of excellence continues to inspire a better India.

Growth and Expansion of Agarwal Industrial Corporation Ltd

After gaining a position in the stock exchange,  AICL has consistently stretched out its operations and flourished across India expanding its presence in the Middle East starting with the UAE. 

India’s long-term energy consumption needs encouraged AICL to adapt renewable wind-energy sources, setting up windmills across the state of Rajasthan and Maharashtra.

With 12 offices and 7 factories in operation, AICL continues to grow and promises to keep paving the way forward.

 Agarwal Industrial Corporation Ltd  is a company that has made its mark in the infrastructure industry over the years. They’ve continued to set new benchmarks and create considerable progress, both in their organisation and in India as a whole. 

AICL has recently ranked 198 in the Fortune India The Next 500 list of 2023. AICL has showcased its outstanding capabilities and achieved a momentous milestone, filling the company with pride

As AICL looks to the future, it remains dedicated to providing high-quality products and services, fostering a culture of innovation, and delivering customized solutions to its clients’ needs.

When it comes to road construction, bitumen is a popular and essential material used for paving roads and highways. Traditionally, bitumen has been used in its pure form, but in recent years, bitumen emulsions have emerged as a more versatile and efficient alternative.

What are Bitumen Emulsions?

Bitumen emulsion is a widely used mixture of bitumen and water that is stabilised with an emulsifying agent. It has emerged as a versatile and efficient alternative to traditional bitumen in road construction, offering several advantages such as improved workability, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced performance in a wide range of weather conditions.

Bitumen emulsions gained popularity in Europe during the 1920s and 1930s, and the first bitumen emulsion plant was established in the United States in 1926. However, it was not until the 1950s that the use of bitumen emulsion became more widespread, particularly in North America. Today, bitumen emulsion is used in road construction throughout the world and has become a key component of modern road-building techniques.

Over the years, advancements in technology and chemistry have improved the quality of bitumen emulsions and expanded their applications. Today, bitumen emulsions are used not only in road construction but also in a wide range of other industries, including roofing, waterproofing, and mining.

Types of Bitumen Emulsion

Bitumen emulsions can be classified based on different factors such as setting time and surface charge. Here’s an overview of the different types of bitumen emulsions:

Based on Setting Time

Bitumen emulsions are categorised based on their setting time, which refers to the amount of time it takes for the emulsion to break and for the asphalt to set. This is an important factor in determining the appropriate emulsion to use in a particular application. Here’s a closer look at each of the three categories of bitumen emulsions based on their setting time:

• Rapid-Setting Bitumen Emulsions: As the name suggests, rapid-setting bitumen emulsions have a fast setting time, typically in the range of a few minutes to an hour. These emulsions are ideal for surface treatments and patching, as they can quickly and efficiently seal cracks and potholes. Rapid-setting emulsions are commonly used in urban areas where traffic volume is high, and quick repairs are needed to maintain road safety.

• Medium-Setting Bitumen Emulsions: Medium-setting bitumen emulsions have a longer setting time than rapid-setting emulsions, typically in the range of one to three hours. These emulsions are used for fog seals and base stabilisation. Fog seals are a type of surface treatment that is used to seal and protect an existing pavement surface, while base stabilisation is used to improve the strength and durability of the base layer of the pavement. Medium-setting emulsions are also used for tack coats, which are used to bond an existing pavement surface to a new layer of asphalt.

• Slow-Setting Bitumen Emulsions: Slow-setting bitumen emulsions have the longest setting time of the three categories, typically in the range of four to six hours. These emulsions are used for slurry seals, micro-surfacing, and chip seals. Slurry seals are used to seal and protect existing pavements, while micro-surfacing is a type of surface treatment used to improve the texture and skid resistance of the pavement surface. Chip seals are used to seal and protect the pavement surface and are commonly used on rural roads and highways.

Based on Surface Charge

Bitumen emulsions can also be classified based on their surface charge, which plays an important role in determining the appropriate emulsion for a specific application. Here’s a closer look at the three categories of bitumen emulsions based on their surface charge:

• Anionic Bitumen Emulsions: Anionic emulsions have a negatively charged surface and are commonly used in pavement construction. These emulsions are known for their ability to bond well with acidic aggregates, making them ideal for use in areas where the soil and aggregates have high natural acidity. Anionic emulsions are also used for surface treatments and can be applied to existing pavements to protect them from further damage.

• Cationic Bitumen Emulsions: Cationic emulsions have a positively charged surface and are commonly used in applications such as soil stabilization, dust control, and the production of asphalt emulsion mixes. These emulsions are known for their ability to bond well with alkaline aggregates and can be used in areas where the soil and aggregates have high natural alkalinity. Cationic emulsions are also used for tack coats, which are used to bond an existing pavement surface to a new layer of asphalt.

• Non-Ionic Bitumen Emulsions: Non-ionic emulsions have no charge and are mainly used for industrial applications such as adhesives and coatings. These emulsions do not bond well with aggregates and are not suitable for use in pavement construction or surface treatments.

What are the advantages of bitumen road emulsions?

The importance of bitumen emulsion in road construction lies in its ability to improve the efficiency and sustainability of the construction process. Here are a few reasons why bitumen emulsion is an important material for road construction:

1. Improved workability: Bitumen emulsion is easier to handle and apply than traditional bitumen, making it more efficient to use. It can be applied at lower temperatures and has a lower viscosity, which reduces the risk of delays in the construction process.

2. Reduced environmental impact: Bitumen emulsion is water-based and emits fewer harmful fumes and gases during the application, making it a more sustainable choice for road construction. Its production also requires less energy, which further reduces its environmental impact.

3. Enhanced performance: Bitumen emulsion is more resistant to water damage and can be applied more easily in colder temperatures, making it a more versatile and reliable material for road construction.

4. Safer for workers: Bitumen emulsion does not require heating or other high-temperature processes during the application, which reduces the risk of accidents and injuries for workers.

5. Lower overall cost: Bitumen emulsion is more cost-effective to produce, transport, and apply than traditional bitumen, which can help reduce the overall cost of road construction projects.

Overall, the importance of bitumen emulsion in road construction is that it offers a more efficient, sustainable, and safe alternative to traditional bitumen, while also delivering better performance and a lower overall cost.

Takeaway

Bitumen emulsions have been extensively used by road developers in both India and various parts of the world. They make the mixing and construction of roads smoother, faster, simpler and less expensive as compared to bituminous mixtures.

 To sum up we conclude that Bitumen Emulsions are a viable material for road building which solves all the problems facing traditional bitumen and can meet the demand of consumers in a better way.

What is Bitumen?

Bitumen is a dark, sticky substance that is derived from crude oil. It is a material that has been used for thousands of years in various forms, but has become an essential component in the infrastructure & construction industry, specifically in the building of roads and other infrastructure projects.

One of the key properties of bitumen is its ability to bind together different materials, making it an ideal binder for asphalt concrete, which is used to construct roads, bridges, and other surfaces that need to withstand heavy traffic

What is the use of Bitumen?

Approximately, 95% of all roads in the world are paved with asphalt.

However, bitumen isn’t just limited to roads and bridges, it also has other uses such as waterproofing, insulation, and as a sealant for dams and other structures. It is also a raw material in the production of various chemicals such as solvents, lubricants, and even paints.

One of the most striking statistics about bitumen is its global consumption. According to the Bitumen World, the world’s consumption of bitumen is estimated to be around 150 million metric tons per year.

Despite the fact that bitumen is a non-renewable resource, the industry is growing rapidly. The global bitumen market is forecasted to reach a staggering $110 billion by 2026, with a projected growth rate of 5%.

Indian infrastructure milestones and Bitumen

India’s construction industry is a tapestry of ancient architectural marvels and modern-day feats of engineering. From the grandeur of the Taj Mahal, built in the 17th century, to the towering height of the Statue of Unity, completed in 2018, India has a long history of construction excellence.

In the current scenario, India is focusing on infrastructure development, with the government announcing several ambitious projects such as the construction of 100 smart cities, the development of industrial corridors, and the construction of new airports and seaports. This is expected to boost the construction industry, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11% from 2020-2025.

Moreover,  bitumen plays a vital role towards planning and execution of road construction projects in India. India has made significant progress in the realm of Bitumen Emulsion infrastructure, resulting in a surge of pride among citizens and growth in the number of manufacturers in the industry.

India has demonstrated its capability in creating a diverse range of infrastructure projects, from eco-friendly cities to massive freeways and tunnels. Some of them are Chenab Bridge, Yamuna Expressway, etc.

However, the infrastructure industry in India is not without its challenges. Shortage of skilled labour, delays in project approvals and land acquisition, and difficulties in obtaining financing are some of the hurdles that the industry is facing.

Role of Bitumen in India’s Future

Bitumen plays an important role in India’s economic growth and development. It helps to improve transportation infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion by improving road quality through better road surfaces. The use of bitumen reduces the cost of maintenance significantly by increasing durability and reducing breakages during use

The market for bitumen in India, valued at $2.8 billion in 2018, is expected to grow to $3.6 billion by 2026 with a CAGR of 2.8% from 2019 to 2026

The market size of bitumen is predicted to increase massively in the coming years due to various government initiatives and construction projects.

The projects include expenditure for development of National Highways, including projects relating to expressways, two-laning of highways, under the National Highways Development Project,development of Vijayawada-Ranchi road, six-laning of crowded stretches of the Golden Quadrilateral, a special program for the development of road connectivity in Naxal affected areas.

Moreover, bitumen adhesive is widely used in the construction industry for roofing because of its physical properties, including toughness, flexibility, and good UV resistance, making it an ideal adhesive for this purpose.

Hence, rapid urbanisation and government programs like “Housing for All” which focuses on building homes for urban dwellers, is likely to propel the growth of the bitumen market in the country.

In 2022, the budget for road construction witnessed a massive increase from INR 33,414 crores (Financial Year 2015) to INR 1,83,101 crores (Financial Year 2022).

According to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Speed and Scale of progress, India is accelerating towards the goal of constructing 100 km of roads per day over the next two years.

Even though the pace of road construction was slowed during the pandemic, it has picked up pace during 2021-22.

‘My ministry and my team is working hard, and even during COVID-19 pandemic time, our (highway) construction rate was 38 km per day and my ambition is to take it up to 60 km per day, it is a target’.– Union Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari

Though the goal of constructing 60 km per day did not reach in 2022-23, there is still a considerable chance of achieving it this year (2023-24).

Takeaway: 

In conclusion, bitumen plays a crucial role in the construction industry and is a building block for India’s economic growth in 2023.

With the increasing demand for housing and infrastructure development, the bitumen market is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years.