BBMP Turns to Stone Matrix Asphalt for Flyover Upgrades

02 Jul 2025 CW Team

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to resurface nearly a dozen city flyovers with stone matrix asphalt (SMA) — a high strength blend of coarse aggregate, rich bitumen binder and cellulose fibres that outlasts conventional hot mix surfaces. Until now the corporation relied on cheaper micro surfacing, but its thin layer failed to smooth out undulations and soon gave way to potholes. Earlier this week the Hebbal flyover became the first structure to receive the SMA treatment, and the civic body now plans similar work on flyovers near Shri Gali Anjaneya Temple, Benniganahalli (Tin Factory), the Outer Ring Road and other key corridors.

Chief Engineer M Lokesh noted that flyovers are rarely cut open by utility agencies, making them ideal for a long life surfacing; once laid, the new layer should remain intact for at least five years without major attention. SMA has already proved its worth on KG Road, which stayed pothole free for over six years, and on stretches such as Margosa Road, Modi Hospital Road, KR Circle and the HAL underpass. The technology is standard on national highways and was used on Mumbai’s Trans Harbour Link, India’s longest sea bridge.

Most Bengaluru carriageways are still topped with ordinary bituminous asphalt, which deteriorates quickly when quality control is lax. BBMP has lately experimented with concrete overlays, yet pavement design expert Kishore Kumar M argues that a properly designed and laid SMA surface can last up to ten years. He cautions, however, that the mix demands specialised equipment, strict supervision and high grade materials — capabilities that only a handful of contractors currently possess.

Image source:https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/

Resources

08 Sep 2025

IGBC Launches 32nd Chapter in Ranchi to Drive Green Building Growth

The CII Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) has launched its 32nd Chapter in Ranchi to accelerate Jharkhand’s transition towards sustainable and resilient urban infrastructure. The launch event, held on September 6 at Radisson Blu Hotel, brought together government officials, industry leaders, and sustainability experts. Sunil Kumar, IAS, Principal Secretary, Urban Development & Housing Department, Government of Jharkhand, said, “The launch of the IGBC Ranchi Chapter marks a significant step in Jharkhand’s urban development journey. The state is committed to creating a policy e..

Mindspace REIT Marks Five Years With 14.8 Per Cent Annualised Returns

Mindspace Business Parks REIT, owner and developer of a Grade-A office portfolio, has completed five years since its listing on the Indian bourses in August 2020. Despite debuting during the global pandemic, the REIT has delivered 14.8 per cent annualised total returns, expanded its portfolio, and reinforced occupier trust. Key achievements over five years include: Portfolio expansion of 30 per cent to 31.0 msf through acquisitions and new developments. Gross leasing of 25.2 msf, with occupancy sustained at 93.7 per cent. Cumulative distribution of Rs 55.9 billion to unitho..

Great Value Realty Secures RERA Nod for Ultra-Luxury Ekanam Project

Great Value Realty, one of North India’s most trusted developers, has received RERA approval for its flagship ultra-luxury residential project, Ekanam (RERA No. UPRERAPRJ15109/2019). The announcement was made during the Great Partners Meet at Noida. Built on the only available land parcel in Sector 107, Noida, Ekanam embodies the company’s philosophy, “Great is the New Norm,” promising excellence in design, quality, and sustainable community living. With seamless connectivity to Noida Expressway, DND Flyway, metro stations, and proximity to the upcoming Jewar Airport, the project ..