In a notable step towards sustainability, the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) has shown that single-use plastic waste—often considered a severe environmental threat—can be converted into a valuable resource for infrastructure development.

Under an innovative pilot project, plastic waste is being used in the construction of asphalt roads in Lingarajnagar, Hubballi. By merging waste management with infrastructure planning, HDMC is transforming discarded plastic into a sustainable solution that benefits both the urban landscape and the environment.

The process begins with daily household waste collection by HDMC. Once transported to the compactor station, plastic suitable for construction use is segregated, shredded using specialised machinery, and sent to the asphalt mixing plant.

At the facility, the plastic is combined with gravel and tar. Roughly 8 per cent of the bitumen normally used in the mixture is replaced with shredded plastic. This not only enhances the durability of the roads but also improves resistance to water damage, surface wear, and potholes.

Beyond environmental gains, these plastic-reinforced roads prove to be economical—saving up to Rs 1.5 million per kilometre compared to conventional asphalt roads.

HDMC’s Commissioner confirmed that the civic body plans to incorporate plastic waste in all future road projects. “By repurposing plastic waste for road construction, we are reducing pollution while improving the quality and resilience of our roads,” he stated.

“Hubballi-Dharwad is setting an example—turning hazardous plastic into a resource for a more sustainable and forward-looking city,” he added.