Trial of eco-friendly FDR technology for road construction underway in Mandi

Himachal Pradesh is piloting the Full Depth Reclamation (FDR) technology for road construction under the Prime Minister’s Rural Road Scheme (PMGSY), marking a significant step in enhancing the state’s infrastructure. The trial is being conducted on a 20-km stretch of road connecting Ganpati Temple to Koon ka Tar, near Mandi city.

NPS Chauhan, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) Mandi Zone, confirmed that the FDR technique is being tested in this region. He stated, “The quality of the road constructed using this technology will be evaluated after one week. Based on the results, a decision will be made regarding its future use.”

The FDR method has garnered attention for its environmental benefits, as it recycles existing road materials, reducing the need for fresh resources. Chauhan added, “Feedback from other states indicates that this technology is highly eco-friendly, and we plan to apply it to construct 20 roads in the Mandi and Kullu districts in the future.”

The FDR technique is also praised for its cost-effectiveness and durability. Nitish Sharma, Managing Director of a construction company implementing the technology for the first time, explained that FDR not only accelerates construction but also reduces costs. “Previously, road construction would cost around Rs 100 per unit. With FDR, the cost has decreased to approximately Rs 60-64, resulting in savings for the government and faster project completion. We have rented machinery for this trial, and if the results are favourable, we will expand its usage,” he said.

By reusing existing materials, the FDR method not only reduces environmental impact but also lowers material costs. If successful, it is expected that FDR will become a standard approach for road construction in Himachal Pradesh, benefiting both the government and the environment.