Guidelines by MoRTH for Utilizing Inert Materials in National Highway Construction

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) vide circular dated September 23, 2024, bearing reference number RW/NH-33044/27/2024/S&R (P&B) has announced new policy guidelines aimed at promoting the sustainable construction of national highways through the use of inert materials derived from processed urban solid waste. This initiative addresses the significant environmental challenges posed by solid waste disposal in urban areas.

Two pilot projects, conducted in Delhi-NCR and on the Ahmedabad-Dholera Expressway, successfully utilized inert materials for embankments. Both projects adhered to strict quality control protocols, demonstrating the viability of these materials in large-scale infrastructure development.

MoRTH has emphasized the importance of signing tripartite Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) between local bodies that are annexed with the circular, NHAI/MoRTH, and contractors to facilitate the supply and integration of inert waste materials into ongoing and future projects.

According to the draft MOU, municipal corporations will be responsible for the segregation, quality control, and transportation of inert materials, while contractors will manage the construction process, ensuring compliance with MoRTH’s quality, safety, and environmental standards.

This initiative aims to facilitate sustainable highway construction by effectively utilizing inert material from urban solid waste. By promoting the use of inert soil, the guidelines seek to mitigate environmental challenges, optimize resource utilization, and align national highway projects with modern construction standards, ultimately enhancing the quality and sustainability of India’s road infrastructure.

The circular is to be circulated to all relevant authorities with immediate notice, which includes local government and state government bodies.