The Assam government has partnered with India’s premier road research institute, CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), to tackle the recurring pothole issue using an innovative, eco-friendly technology called ‘ECOFIX.’
The Public Works Department (PWD), Assam, has initiated this collaboration to introduce a sustainable and durable road repair solution that can withstand the state’s challenging monsoon conditions.
The implementation of ECOFIX technology, developed by CSIR-CRRI, aligns with Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma’s vision of making Assam’s roads pothole-free. The initiative was explored under the leadership of Chief Secretary Assam Dr. Ravi Kota, who sought a high-performance solution for road repairs.
What is ECOFIX? A Revolutionary Pothole Repair Technology
ECOFIX is an instant pothole repair mix that is made using industrial waste materials, particularly iron and steel slag from steel industries. This sustainable technology offers several advantages over conventional pothole repair methods:
- Works in Water-Logged Conditions: Unlike traditional methods, ECOFIX does not require dewatering before application, making it ideal for Assam’s monsoon season.
- No Tack Coat Needed: Traditional repairs require a tack coat for adhesion, but ECOFIX works without it, reducing repair time.
- Instant Traffic Movement: Roads repaired using ECOFIX can be opened immediately for vehicles, minimizing disruption.
- Increased Durability: The use of processed iron and steel slag aggregates ensures that the repaired surface lasts longer than conventional asphalt repairs.
Live Demonstration of ECOFIX in Guwahati
To validate the effectiveness of ECOFIX technology, a live demonstration was conducted on G.S. Road, Guwahati, on February 18.
The event featured a presentation by Satish Pandey, Head of the Flexible Pavement Division at CSIR-CRRI and the inventor of ECOFIX technology. The demonstration showcased how the pothole repair mix can be applied instantly, even in wet and water-logged conditions.
Senior officials present at the event included:
- Chandan Sharma, Special Secretary, PWD Assam
- Manoj Kumar Das, Superintendent Engineer, PWRD Guwahati
- Debajit Bhuyan, Special Secretary to the Government of Assam, PWRD
- Jagmohan Basumatary, Director, Assam Road Research & Training Institute
- Bidur Borgayari, Additional Chief Engineer, PWRD, Barak Valley Zone
- Abhijit Choudhury, Superintending Engineer, PWRD, City Road Circle, Guwahati
Why ECOFIX is a Game-Changer for Assam’s Roads?
Assam faces severe road damage during monsoons, with potholes becoming a major concern for commuters. Conventional hot mix plants struggle to operate in wet conditions, making it difficult to conduct timely road repairs.
According to Manoj Kumar Das, Superintendent Engineer, PWRD Guwahati, ECOFIX technology will be a significant improvement for Assam’s road infrastructure. The ability to carry out instant, durable, and eco-friendly repairs during the monsoon season will significantly improve road quality and commuter safety.
Special Secretary Chandan Sharma confirmed that the PWD Assam has successfully tested ECOFIX and will adopt this technology across the state for efficient and long-lasting road repairs.
Proven Success in Other Indian States
ECOFIX technology has already been tested and implemented successfully in several states, including:
- Gujarat
- Jharkhand
- Maharashtra
- Arunachal Pradesh
The results from these states have demonstrated that ECOFIX offers superior durability, rapid application, and long-term performance, making it an ideal solution for Assam’s road infrastructure challenges.
With the successful demonstration and government approval, ECOFIX is set to become a key component of Assam’s road maintenance strategy.
Potential Benefits for Assam’s Road Network:
- Faster Repairs – Immediate pothole repair without long waiting times
- All-Weather Application – Can be used even in rainy and water-logged conditions
- Eco-Friendly – Uses industrial waste materials, promoting sustainable infrastructure
- Cost-Effective – Reduces long-term maintenance costs due to superior durability
The Assam government’s commitment to modernizing road repair techniques is evident in its collaboration with CSIR-CRRI. The widespread adoption of ECOFIX will enhance road safety, improve connectivity, and support economic growth by ensuring better transportation networks.
Assam Takes a Step Towards Sustainable and Pothole-Free Roads
The Assam government’s initiative to partner with CSIR-CRRI for ECOFIX pothole repair technology marks a major leap towards sustainable and durable road maintenance.
With its eco-friendly composition, instant applicability, and long-lasting durability, ECOFIX is set to revolutionize road repairs in Assam, particularly during the challenging monsoon season. As the PWD Assam gears up for full-scale implementation, commuters can look forward to safer, smoother, and pothole-free roads across the state.
