Rising Bitumen Prices Delay Road Repairs in New Delhi
Bitumen cost spike holds up PWD road repairs in Delhi
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
A significant increase in bitumen prices, from ₹40,000 to over ₹70,000 per tonne, due to global supply chain disruptions, is hindering road repair projects in New Delhi. The Public Works Department is considering revising compensation mechanisms to mitigate the impact on ongoing and planned road construction efforts.
- 01Bitumen prices have surged significantly, affecting road repair projects.
- 02The Public Works Department is responsible for 1,404 kilometers of roads in Delhi.
- 03Only 60 kilometers of road repairs have been completed amid rising costs.
- 04Contractors are unwilling to take on new projects due to unviable costs.
- 05The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has adjusted contracts to address similar issues.
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The sharp rise in bitumen prices, attributed to disruptions in global supply chains amid ongoing conflicts in West Asia, has severely impacted road construction and repair projects in New Delhi. Bitumen prices have escalated from ₹40,000 per tonne to over ₹70,000 per tonne, creating challenges for contractors working under existing agreements with the Public Works Department (PWD). The PWD oversees a road network of approximately 1,404 kilometers, with 788 kilometers earmarked for redevelopment. However, only 60 kilometers of repairs have been completed, while work on an additional 340 kilometers is delayed. PWD officials are exploring revisions to compensation mechanisms to prevent widespread disruptions. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has already modified contracts to increase rates in response to similar challenges. Despite these issues, some key infrastructure projects, such as the Barapullah elevated corridor, remain on schedule as arrangements for bitumen supply have been secured.
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The rise in bitumen prices is delaying essential road repairs, affecting commuters and residents in New Delhi who rely on these roads for daily transportation.
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