Road construction in Shimla is set to adopt a new approach, with streets to be strengthened using a bio-enzyme made from sugarcane waste. Officials say the move will significantly cut construction costs while making roads more durable, Amar Ujala reported.
The Public Works Department, Himachal Pradesh will use the method for the first time in the state capital. The work will be taken up during the road resurfacing season beginning in April and will cover several roads in both urban and rural parts of Shimla. Authorities said the stretches selected for the project have already been finalised.
The technique, known as Terrazyme, involves mixing a liquid bio-enzyme derived from sugarcane with soil while preparing the road base. This process strengthens the soil and reduces the need for additional construction material. The treated base becomes more resistant to water, while tar is used mainly on the top layer to improve surface strength. The method will be applied for both road repairs and new construction.
Officials said the use of this technology could bring down construction costs by up to 40 per cent. As it requires less material and soil excavation, it is also expected to reduce mining activity and help protect the surrounding hills. Public Works Department executive engineer Naveev Kaudal said this is the first time roads in Shimla district will be tarred using the Terrazyme method, with work scheduled to start in April.
At the same time, the department is continuing trials of roads made using plastic waste. Some stretches have already been tested in rural areas of Shimla, and similar work is planned on select city roads this year. The department is also considering strengthening certain roads using a mix of soil and cement as part of its efforts to explore alternative construction methods.
