Nitin Gadkari Highlights Green Highways Policy, Use of Recycled Materials in National Highway Projects

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari informed that plantation along National Highways is being carried out in line with the Green Highways Policy 2015 and Indian Road Congress guidelines. Plantation is undertaken along available right of way and medians wherever feasible, with priority given to native species that have high survival rates and strong carbon absorption capacity.

He stated that implementing agencies are actively promoting the use of recycled materials, waste products and environment-friendly technologies in highway construction and maintenance. Sustainable materials such as fly ash in embankments and structural works, Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement in bituminous layers and Construction and Demolition waste are being used in accordance with technical specifications.

The government is also encouraging the use of plastic waste in bituminous mixes, natural geo-textiles, slag, crumb rubber and other recycled industrial by-products to improve pavement performance while addressing environmental concerns. These measures support India’s climate goals by enhancing resource efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing the principles of a circular economy in highway development.