Gujarat is moving ahead with a major push toward sustainable infrastructure by upgrading its road network with eco-friendly construction methods. In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of rapid and large-scale development, the state government led by Bhupendra Patel has earmarked Rs 1,147 crore in the current budget to build climate-resilient roads using advanced green technology. Under the initiative, construction work on 20 roads across multiple districts will begin soon. The project focuses on recycling old road materials during reconstruction to cut costs and encourage environmentally sustainable development.

The selected roads include projects in districts such as Patan, Gir Somnath, Mahisagar, Bharuch, Morbi, Surendranagar, Surat, Vadodara, Chhota Udepur, Anand, Mehsana, Kutch, Bhavnagar, Jamnagar and Narmada. Major routes covered under the programme include the Lanwa-Manund-Sander-Balisana Road, Bhidiya Somnath Road, Santrampur-Jalod Road, Surendranagar Bypass Road and Talaja-Gopnath Road, among others.

The development work will involve widening and resurfacing roads, constructing RCC gutter lines, strengthening shoulders, adding rumble strips and road safety features, and implementing four-lane stretches where needed. Modern methods such as white topping and glass grid technology will also be used depending on the specific requirements of each road.

Officials stated that the reconstruction process is designed to maximise reuse of existing materials. Old roads will be excavated, treated with lime and stabilised using pulverising and rolling techniques. The reclaimed material will then be spread and compacted with modern equipment. After proper levelling, a Stress Absorbing Membrane Interlayer (SAMI) — a specialised fibre layer — will be installed before asphalt paving to reduce cracking, absorb traffic pressure and extend the lifespan of the roads.

The use of green technology allows the recycling of old pavement, soil and metal, helping lower construction expenses while improving the strength and durability of roads. The approach is also expected to reduce maintenance needs, cut carbon emissions and conserve natural resources. The government has also approved a Rs 50 crore green technology reconstruction project for the Jambusar-Tankali-Deola road in Bharuch district. This road is considered strategically important as it links the pharmaceutical bulk drug park near Jambusar with the ONGC facility, coastal salt production zones and shrimp farming areas. The route also improves connectivity between Jambusar and Vadodara, offering easier access to railways, airports and expressways, which is expected to support industrial growth and regional economic activity.