A parliamentary committee uncovered design flaws and lack of quality control contributing to the collapse of recently built concrete highways in vulnerable regions. The shift to concrete roads without proper assessment led to subpar results and financial losses. Recommendations include a data-driven approach in material selection and discouraging extensive subcontracting. The road transport and highways ministry admitted to design failures, deficient quality assurance, and over-reliance on builders leading to the collapse of concrete highways in rain-prone areas. With calls for an evidence-based pavement material selection framework integrating technical and environmental assessments, the ministry faces challenges linked to premature cracks and quality issues on expressways like the Delhi-Vadodara road. Furthermore, subcontracting practices have come under scrutiny, with a proposal to limit subcontracting levels to enhance project quality and effectiveness.
