Bitumen Price Surge Disrupts Road Construction in Uttar Pradesh Amid West Asia Tensions
W Asia war hits UP roads: Bitumen price surge hampers asphalt laying
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Geopolitical tensions in West Asia have caused a 65% surge in bitumen prices, disrupting approximately 70% of road construction projects in Uttar Pradesh, India. The Public Works Department is proposing compensation measures to mitigate the impact on ongoing works, as contractors face challenges in sourcing materials.
- 01Bitumen prices have surged by 65%, from ₹53,150 to ₹89,859 per metric tonne.
- 02Approximately 70% of road construction projects in Uttar Pradesh are affected.
- 03The Public Works Department is drafting a proposal for compensation to contractors.
- 04Contractors are urged to use quality materials despite rising costs.
- 05The state has allocated ₹34,468 crore for road and bridge construction in the 2026-27 budget.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Geopolitical tensions in West Asia, particularly due to the US-Iran conflict, have severely impacted road construction in Uttar Pradesh, India, with bitumen prices soaring by 65% since February. The price per metric tonne has jumped from ₹53,150 to ₹89,859, leading to a slowdown in approximately 70% of ongoing projects. The Public Works Department (PWD) is aware of the situation and is drafting a cabinet proposal to compensate contractors for the increased costs incurred on works executed between April 1 and June 30, 2026. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) has also issued guidelines for adjusting prices in engineering procurement and construction (EPC) contracts. Contractors are encouraged to maintain quality despite the price hikes, as using inferior materials could compromise road safety. The state has allocated ₹34,468 crore for road and bridge construction in the upcoming budget, but the ongoing crisis is expected to affect project timelines significantly.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The surge in bitumen prices is likely to delay road construction projects, affecting infrastructure development and potentially increasing costs for taxpayers.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How should the government address the rising costs of construction materials?
Connecting to poll...
More about Public Works Department

Delhi to Construct 55km Elevated Ring Road to Enhance Urban Mobility
Hindustan Times • Apr 24, 2026

High Court Orders Inquiry into Vikas Nagar Slum Fire Incident
Hindustan Times • Apr 23, 2026

NHAI Tackles Waterlogging Issues on Patparganj Stretch of Delhi–Meerut Expressway
Hindustan Times • Apr 23, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.

