For long, Goa has been grappling with the problem of newly constructed roads developing potholes even after a single monsoon season. Roads with potholes spell danger for road-users as several accidents have been attributed to the poor conditions of the roads. It is pertinent to note that the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways directed the Kerala State Government to use rubber in road construction. It also suggested blending of the natural rubber with tar mixture as it is evaluated to be good for the safety of passengers. It also helps the constructed roads last longer. Rubber is strong, it can be stretched without breaking, it is resistant to corrosion, it is waterproof, and it works as an electrical insulator. The use of rubber modified asphalt for road construction has benefits ranging from environmental to economic. Roads built using rubber modified asphalt are not only quieter and more comfortable to drive on but also significantly safer, due to the materials increased flexibility and skid resistance. Goa PWD (Roads) needs to look into the use of waste rubber from car tyres in road construction.
