Steel slag-based technology is emerging as an important option to address the problem of frequently damaged roads in inaccessible, mountainous, and rain-prone areas like Jammu and Kashmir. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Prime Minister’s Office, stated that this technology could prove particularly useful and sustainable for the Himalayan regions.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that harsh weather conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and other Himalayan states cause roads to deteriorate quickly. Therefore, there is a need to adopt new and scientific technologies instead of traditional methods to ensure long-term safety and usability.
He made this statement at the signing of an agreement between the Technology Development Board and Visakhapatnam-based industry partner Ramuka Global Eco Work Private Limited. Under this agreement, commercial production of a ready-to-use pothole repair mix called Ecofix is being initiated. This technology has been developed by the Central Road Research Institute of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
To familiarize state governments and road construction agencies with this technology, a two-day workshop on steel slag technology will be held in Jammu and Kashmir next week. Engineers and officials from the Public Works Department and other related departments will be trained. Similar workshops will be organized in other states and union territories in the future.
The Union Minister informed that this technology has been successfully tested in various states over the past two years. Steel slag-based road repair solutions have been adopted in Surat, Gujarat, the northeastern states, especially Arunachal Pradesh, as well as Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Jharkhand, and Andhra Pradesh, where positive results have been observed.
The unique feature of Ecofix mix is that it can be used even in wet and waterlogged conditions. This reduces road repair time and prevents traffic disruption. Additionally, it is considered a more sustainable and lower life-cycle cost solution than traditional methods.
Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that the use of steel slag is an example of converting industrial waste into useful construction materials, which is in line with the goals of a circular economy. This reduces dependence on natural resources and addresses the problem of industrial waste disposal.
He also emphasized that public-funded research should directly benefit the public. Innovations like EcoFix demonstrate how science can move beyond laboratories to address pressing issues such as road safety, vehicle damage, and passenger discomfort.
Under the scheme, the Technology Development Board and private industry partners will jointly establish an iron and steel slag processing facility with an annual capacity of approximately 200,000 tonnes. Commercial production is expected to begin by the end of 2027, generating direct and indirect employment opportunities locally.
The Union Minister appealed to the State Governments and the media to play an active role in creating awareness about this technology, so as to promote sustainable and economical road construction, especially in the Himalayan and hilly areas.
