The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has been advocating for the increased adoption of precast concrete in construction and is working towards making it a standard practice. Efforts are underway to formulate policies in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to enhance the use of precast technology, with a target of implementing it extensively, if not entirely.

Precast concrete is being considered for mandatory implementation in various infrastructure projects, including access-controlled highways, particularly for boundary walls. The ministry highlights multiple advantages of precast concrete, emphasizing its suitability for all-weather conditions and its ability to significantly reduce construction time. Officials point out that factory-manufactured precast concrete ensures consistent quality, enhances durability, and improves the aesthetics of structures through uniform design. Additionally, this technology helps lower carbon emissions, noise levels, and air pollution by limiting on-site construction activities.

The adoption of precast concrete is also expected to contribute to the growth of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. By increasing demand for factory-produced concrete elements, the sector could see significant development and expansion.

The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway serves as a prime example of the successful implementation of precast concrete, with components such as panels, girders, and boundary walls manufactured using this method. Many countries, including Belgium, Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, and the United States, have widely adopted factory-produced precast beams in infrastructure projects, reinforcing the effectiveness of this approach.

With a focus on cost efficiency, sustainability, and faster execution, the ministry is actively promoting precast technology as a key solution for modern infrastructure development.

News source: The New Indian Express