Hubballi: In a significant stride toward sustainability, the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has demonstrated that single-use plastic waste, often seen as a major environmental hazard, can be transformed into a valuable resource for infrastructure development.
As part of an innovative pilot project, plastic waste is being used in the construction of asphalt roads in Lingarajnagar, Hubballi. By integrating waste management with road construction, HDMC is turning discarded plastic into a practical solution that benefits both the environment and urban development.
The process begins with HDMC’s daily household waste collection. Once the waste is transported to the compactor station, plastic materials suitable for road construction are segregated. These are then shredded into small pieces using specialized machines and sent to the asphalt mixing plant.
At the mixing facility, the plastic is blended with gravel and tar. Approximately 8% of the bitumen mixture is replaced with shredded plastic waste. This not only strengthens the durability of the roads but also helps prevent water damage, surface wear, and pothole formation.
In addition to environmental benefits, the plastic-infused roads are cost-effective—saving up to ₹1.5 lakh per kilometer compared to traditional asphalt roads.
HDMC Commissioner noted that the corporation plans to expand the use of plastic waste in all future road construction projects.
“By repurposing plastic waste for road infrastructure, we’re not only reducing environmental pollution but also enhancing road quality,” the Commissioner said.
“Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation is leading by example—transforming harmful plastic waste into a valuable asset for a more sustainable and resilient city,” he said.
