Page 9 - Construction Vision Dec-Jan 2024 Issue

STEEL CRASH BARRIERS MAY MAKE (HIGH)WAY
FOR CHEAPER BAMBOO

ndia is looking to replace steel crash expected that costs of constructing crash the vehicle itself," the official added.
barriers on highways with bamboo, to barrier could come down by 10-20%.
Imake them safer while bringing down A specialised treatment process on
overall construction cost. The price of existing barriers depends on bamboo can enhance its durability and
thickness, weight and quality of metal longevity ensuring its resilience in various
The technology, patented in India and used and varies from ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 weather conditions.
benchmarked to the European Safety per meter.
Standards, is expected to give a India is the world's second-largest
significant push to the green economy The ministry has already run pilots and is bamboo growing country after China and
now keen for its adoption as part of its
and bring down the cost of construction has over 13 million hectares of land
of highways by up to 20%. green highways initiative. under bamboo cultivation with annual
production pegged at over five million
Bamboo, when compared to the daily
A senior government official told ET that tonnes per year.
escalation in steel prices, driven by
the ministry of road, transport and
shortages and mining challenges, is
highways plans to initiate trial projects Besides, it is the fastest-growing and
poised to offer significant cost savings
across 25 states covering a length of 86 resilient plant that demands minimal
when compared to steel, the official said.
km of highways over the next six-eight water and maintenance, hence
months. ecologically sustainable. It could also
Bamboo's hollow circular structure with provide a boost to rural and farm
"In the subsequent phase, the ministry robust internodes gives it the strength incomes as an additional crop.
and flexibility and ensures that it swiftly
will assess the feasibility and potential
benefits of scaling up the bamboo crash regains its original shape after a vehicle The model could also be replicated by
impact.
barrier, which could be a significant boon Indian Railways for fencing across
for growers," another official said, adding "This not only enhances safety for vehicle railways tracks.
occupants but also minimises damage to
as production volumes increase, it is

CONSTRUCTION VISION 7 DECEMBER-JANUARY 2024