The Greater Chennai Corporation intends to acquire 10 infrared repair machines at a cost of ₹15 crore to address the issue of potholes on roads throughout the city. This innovative technique utilizes infrared technology to heat the damaged sections of the road.
Subsequently, bitumen is incorporated, and the pothole is leveled. “This approach allows the repaired area to integrate smoothly with the surrounding road surface, resulting in a durable, smooth finish that endures longer,” stated B Shankaravelu, chief engineer of GCC.
The existing repair method often results in an uneven road surface, with potholes reemerging within days or weeks, causing significant inconvenience for commuters, particularly during the monsoon season. These state-of-the-art mobile units will be deployed for roadwork on bus routes and internal roads. A contractor will operate and maintain these units for a duration of three years, during which time road repair and patchwork activities will be conducted.
The public has consistently voiced concerns regarding uneven road surfaces, water accumulation, and frequent vehicle damage, noting that authorities have depended on temporary solutions for years, rendering roads unsafe and leaving commuters frustrated despite ongoing maintenance efforts.
“If roads are constructed properly using high-quality materials and with sufficient oversight, there would be no necessity for repeated patchwork,” remarked B Niranjan Patnaik, president of the Kamarajar Nagar Residents’ Welfare Association. “Moreover, the current patchwork is frequently executed poorly and deteriorates over time. This initiative should at least contribute to achieving a more uniform road surface.”
