Mopa Airport Link Road Goa’s Landmark Project: Ashoka Buildcon
Mopa Airport Link Road, constructed by Ashoka Buildcon, is enhancing Connectivity and Efficiency in the state of Goa, while setting new standards in Environmental Responsibility.
The Mopa Airport Link Road, constructed by Ashoka Buildcon Ltd, is a 6.7 km project that enhances the connectivity between National Highway 66 and the Manohar International Airport by significantly reducing travel time in Goa and supporting economic growth.
With a project cost of ₹770 crore, the road incorporates sustainable construction techniques, eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and advanced seismic-resistant features. By using recycled materials such as Ground Granular Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS), implementing smart rainwater management, and utilizing automated machines, the project sets new standards in environmental responsibility.
The project was completed 99 days ahead of the scheduled completion date. The inauguration took place on 11th July 2024, with the Hon'ble Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Shri Nitin Gadkari, and the Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Pramod Sawant, officiating the event.
The Mopa Airport Link Road features a 4.4 km elevated section, with a pier height of around 40 meters. The project includes one railway overbridge (ROB) and three viaducts that span hilly terrains and internal roads. One of the viaducts is 40 meters tall and stretches approximately 1.6 km, making it the tallest structure in the project. The road is constructed with controlled access to prevent the entry of cattle and pedestrians, ensuring uninterrupted and safe travel to the Airport.
Optimizing the Construction Process: From Planning to Completion
The success of any large-scale construction project lies in its meticulous planning, innovative techniques, and seamless execution. In this case, achieving efficiency and meeting tight deadlines required a strategic approach from the outset. From early geotechnical investigations and design optimization to advanced construction methods, and a skilled workforce, every aspect of the process was carefully coordinated to ensure success. By leveraging technology and proactive measures, Ashoka Buildcon took on the challenges and delivered the project ahead of schedule, while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.
About the Project
- Project: Construction of Link Road (NH-166 S) to Mopa Airport in the State of Goa
- Type of Road Infrastructure: New National Highway 166S (6-Lanes)
- Location: NH-166S makes a T-junction with NH-66 (Old NH-17) at NH km 492.800 at start Ch. 0.000 and connects the Mopa Airport at Ch. 6.580, in the State of Goa.
- Development Model: EPC
- Cost: Rs 769.41 crores
- Funding: MoRTH
- Status: Project dedicated to the nation by Hon’ble Minister of MoRT&H on 11th July 2024.
- Distance: 6.58 km (with about 4.4 km of elevated portion)
- Highlight: 4.4 km elevated stretch with one of the elevated viaducts standing as high as 40 meters.
Pre-construction Planning
- Conducted early geotechnical investigations to assess the ground profile.
- Performed detailed site surveys and utility mapping to avoid delays.
- Identified potential bottlenecks (land acquisition, environmental approvals, labor licenses, police verification, etc.) early and planned execution sequences accordingly.
- Obtained approvals in parallel with the design process rather than sequentially.
- Established onsite fabrication plants for steel and concrete elements, reducing delays by assembling steel bridge components directly at the project site.
Design Optimization
- Based on geotechnical investigation, the foundation was designed considering the observed Soil Bearing Capacity (SBC).
- Used modular superstructure construction techniques (precast pre-tensioned girders, precast post-tensioned girders, segmental bridge construction) to execute works from multiple fronts.
- Designed the superstructure of the 1.65 km long viaduct in a composite manner, combining segmental and post-tensioned girders.
- Optimized designs to reduce material and time requirements while maintaining safety standards.
- Considered alternative cementitious materials like Ground Granular Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS) to address material shortages and improve efficiency.
Pre-construction Procurement & Logistics
- Ensured early procurement of long-lead materials (reinforcement/structural steel, stressing materials).
- Engaged multiple suppliers to avoid dependency on a single source.
- Optimized site layout for smooth material movement and stacking.
- Implemented Just-in-Time (JIT) inventory to avoid material shortages and storage issues.
Advanced Construction Techniques for Road & Bridge
- Used rapid curing concrete mixes and additives to accelerate pavement strength gain.
- Deployed automated pavers and high-speed, high-capacity batching plants (120 m³ per hour) for efficiency.
- Utilized precast / prefabricated bridge elements for faster assembly.
- Used automatic rebar cutting and bending machines to ensure timely supply to the site, increasing speed and reducing dependency on labor.
- Deployed 4 launching gantries to speed up the launching of segments and girders.
- Used multiple types of pier shutters, including conventional, slip-form, and jump-form sets, for piers up to 40 meters tall.
- Employed modular self-lift pier cap shutters.
Workforce Management
- Deployed over 2,000 workers to meet project timelines.
- Special manpower (riggers) was used for viaduct superstructure work.
- Weekly vertigo tests were conducted for workers working at heights.
- Resources were allocated to ensure round-the-clock work for uninterrupted progress.
- Incentives were provided to contractors and workers to maintain high productivity.
Weather & Seasonal Planning
- Used weather forecasting tools to plan concrete pours and excavation work.
- Materials were procured before the monsoon to ensure uninterrupted work.
- Proper side slopes and drainage systems were implemented to prevent waterlogging.
Progress Reviews
- Set up daily progress monitoring dashboards using Google Sheets.
- Conducted weekly progress meetings to identify and resolve delays.
- Utilized drone technology for real-time monitoring of project status.
Mopa Airport’s Social & Economic Impact
The completion of the Mopa Airport Link Road is a milestone in Goa’s infrastructure development, improving connectivity and stimulating both social and economic growth. The Road facilitates smoother travel and stimulates economic development in the region; enhances regional infrastructure; and provides a seamless travel experience for both tourists and locals. Its access-controlled design ensures safety and uninterrupted travel.
The Mopa Airport Link Road benefits various sectors: it provides faster access to Goa’s northern beaches, boosting tourism. The improved connectivity streamlines logistics and supply chains, increasing trade and commerce. The surrounding areas are expected to see rapid growth in urbanization and real estate.
The Mopa Link Road is not just an infrastructural marvel but also a gateway to several attractions that enhance its significance. Attractions include picturesque views of Goa’s lush greenery and serene surroundings, heritage sites, and traditional Goan villages along the route, and easy access to tourist hotspots like beaches, historic forts, local markets.
Project Highlights
The Mopa Link Road Project stands out amongst Goa’s major infrastructure developments for several reasons:
- Strategic Connectivity: Reduces travel time significantly for passengers and businesses.
- State-of-the-Art Engineering: World-class construction standards for durability and sustainability.
- Boost to Tourism & Economy: Improves access to popular tourist destinations and strengthens the tourism industry.
- Smart Infrastructure Integration: Includes intelligent traffic management, automated toll collection, and LED road lighting.
- Sustainability: Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient lighting contribute to environmental responsibility.
- Seismic-Resistant: Designed with advanced seismic features to withstand potential natural calamities.
- Smart Rainwater Management: Advanced drainage systems designed for efficient rainwater management.
