Stone matrix asphalt roads now used in Bhubaneswar’s Bomikhal over bridge after recent pilot endeavour

The Works Department has now extended the Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) technology on the Bomikhal Road Over Bridge (ROB), following a successful pilot project at Capital Hospital Road in Bhubaneswar in early February. The use of this new technology aims to enhance durability and safety on the critical Y-shaped bridge, notorious for traffic chaos and wear.

What is Stone Matrix Asphalt Road and why is it being used?

The Stone Matrix Asphalt technology, first tested at Capital Hospital Chhak, features a 25mm-thick layer with small aggregate chips designed to resist skidding and reduce maintenance.

Officials now plan to extend SMA to 10 high-traffic intersections, including Airport Chhak and Raj Bhawan Chhak, alongside a Mastic Asphalt Coating for stretches like Punama Gate to VSS Nagar Overbridge. Additionally, experts have predicted these surfaces could last 7 to 10 years, cutting the need for frequent repairs.

“These types of roads prevent skidding of the vehicles and require very low maintenance as well,” former National Road Safety Council (NRSC) member Syed Maqbool Ali had said in February.

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Why Stone Matrix Asphalt for Bomikhal?

The Bomikhal ROB, which opened in 2020, is undergoing its first major repair. The stone-on-stone design of stone matrix asphalt technology, using high crushed stone content and extra asphalt, strengthens key sections like the bridge’s intersection and 100-meter stretches on its three legs.