India just became the 1st to make bio-bitumen for roads
India has pulled off a global first by starting commercial production of bio-bitumen—a greener, homegrown alternative for building roads.
Announced by Dr Jitendra Singh, this new material is made from crop waste like rice straw using pyrolysis and mixed with regular bitumen.
It's a win for the environment too, since it helps cut down pollution from crop burning and lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
Why bio-bitumen matters (and where it's already working)
A 100-meter test stretch using bio-bitumen has already been laid on the Jorabat-Shillong Expressway in Meghalaya, showing that it works in real-world conditions.
Since India imports half its bitumen—costing the country around ₹25,000-30,000 crore every year—switching to even 15% bio-bitumen could save the country around ₹4,500 crore every year.
Plus, it supports farmers and brings us closer to self-reliance under Viksit Bharat 2047.