In a major initiative towards infrastructure development, Goa Industrial Development Corporation (Goa-IDC) has commenced upgradation of roads in 8 industrial estates using the state-of-the-art White Topping technology. White Topping involves applying a concrete overlay over distressed asphalt roads, following necessary profile corrections. This process ensures pothole-free, highly durable roads, promoting safer and faster vehicular movement thus enhancing the efficiency of industrial operations in Goa. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of building a resilient, sustainable and world-class infrastructure that accelerates economic growth and strengthens India’s industrial backbone.
The project was inaugurated in the presence of Alexio Lourenco Reginaldo, Chairman, Goa-IDC and Pravimal Abhishek, Managing Director, Goa-IDC. The contract for this pioneering work has been awarded to M/s KKB Engineering & Constructions Pvt Ltd.
The White Topping technology, is guided by the circular issued by Ministry of Road Transport and Highway (S&R Zone) on 14th Dec 2020 to all State Governments. Subsequently, MORTH framed policy for implementing White topping on 3rd Oct 2024. The process involves replacing asphalt road surfaces with high-strength concrete overlays. This upgrade significantly increases the lifespan of roads, reduces maintenance costs and provides better resistance to vehicular wear and tear.
The upgradation project will cover in four phases:
1. Phase I: Honda and Pilerne Industrial Estates.
2. Phase II: Verna and Margao Industrial Estates.
3. Phase III: Bethora Industrial Estate.
4. Phase IV: Canacona, Kakoda, and Cuncolim Industrial Estates.
Speaking on the occasion, Alexio Lourenco Reginaldo, Chairman, Goa-IDC stated: “The launch of the White Topping technology in our industrial estates is a testament to Goa-IDC’s commitment to creating world-class infrastructure for industrial growth. This initiative not only enhances the durability and safety of our roads but also strengthens the foundation of our industrial ecosystem, ensuring better connectivity and operational efficiency for industries across Goa. By ensuring seamless connectivity and minimizing disruptions, we are empowering industries to operate at their full potential, contributing to the state’s economic progress.”
The first phase of the initiative is underway in Pilerne Industrial Estate, where the following tasks have been accomplished:
A) Pavement Evaluation: For assessing the condition of existing pavement, the following information was collected.
a) Type and thickness of existing layers was examined by trial pits.
b) Type and extent of distresses
c) Restriction on finished Road Level (FRL)
d) Width of existing pavement and proposed concrete overlay
e) Presence of any treacherous soil
f) Drainage condition, drainage requirement
g) Utilities crossing requirements
h) Traffic survey data
i) Alternative arrangement for traffic diversion was planned
B) Surface Preparation.
a) Cable Duct across the road with Triple Row for three utility services such as water & telephone, power cables and Gas lines were provided.
b) As and where required road widening was carried out by providing granular sub base (GSB)
c) The distresses in the existing surfaces were addressed.
d) Milling of bituminous pavement by cold milling machine including levelling to the level and slope sensors self‐loading of milled material by discharge conveyor onto transport vehicles.
e) Cleaning of the existing blank topped surface with brooms soft brushes and finally dusting by compressed air to lay DLC
f) Dry lean concrete (DLC) mixed in RMC plant, transported to site, laid with a paver with electronic sensor, compacting vibratory roller, finishing and curing to correct surface profile with concrete paver.
The implementation of White Topping technology has commenced with the following process:
a) Laying of White Topping: Unreinforced M-40 grade pavement quality concrete is prepared at a Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC) plant and transported to the site. The concrete is precisely laid using advanced mechanical slipform paver machinery. Essential components like dowel bars and tie bars are placed, and the material is evenly spread, vibrated, compacted, and finished in a seamless operation adhering to specified lines and grades. The surface is then textured, curing compounds are applied, and the curing process is completed by spraying water on hessian cloth covering the concrete surface. Finally, groove cutting is performed to enhance the road’s structural integrity and accommodate thermal expansion.
b) Enhanced Markings and Safety Features: To ensure optimal safety and visibility, the upgraded roads are equipped with hot-applied thermoplastic compound lines, reflective road markers, and road studs with lens reflectors.
Key benefits of White Topping include:
• Durability and Cost-Effectiveness: White Topping offers an extended lifespan with minimal maintenance requirements, significantly reducing life-cycle costs. Unlike bituminous overlays, which lose serviceability over time and require frequent resurfacing, White Topping provides a long-term solution.
• Enhanced Safety: By eliminating deformations like rutting and cracking, which are common in bituminous pavements, White Topping ensures safer road conditions. This is especially critical in hot climates, where traditional asphalt roads often degrade faster.
• Improved Structural Capacity: White Topping enhances the load-bearing capacity of the existing pavement when laid over a strong base course, impeding structural distresses and ensuring stability.
• Minimal Maintenance and Lane Closures: Roads upgraded with White Topping require negligible maintenance, reducing disruptions caused by frequent lane closures, a common issue with asphalt roads.
• Environmental and Economic Benefits: White Topping is a cost-effective choice when considering life-cycle costs, addressing budget constraints while accommodating high traffic demands. Its sustainability and low environmental impact further enhance its appeal.
