In response to recent bridge collapses, the Ministry for Road Transport and Highways is mandating the use of high-tensile stainless steel in coastal highway projects to enhance safety and durability. This directive aims to strengthen infrastructure in regions prone to extreme weather conditions.

In lieu of the recent bridge collapses, especially near coastal areas, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways has recommended the use of high-tensile stainless steel. Given the anti-corrosive and durable nature of stainless steel, it is viewed as an ideal material to be used for construction of bridges on national highways in coastal areas, as such areas are prone to extreme weather conditions. Climate change and drastic weather changes weaken the infrastructure, thereby increasing the chances of accidents and mishaps.

The minister has mandated the use of high-tensile stainless steel in bridge construction contracts in response to the increasing incidents of bridge collapses, said a news report. This will be applicable to current and future projects. Using an enhanced material like stainless steel will add to the strength and durability of the bridge’s structure. 

The Ministry has recently issued a directive mandating that all state and central road construction agencies incorporate a new requirement into Schedule D of their construction contracts, with immediate effect. Schedule D details the technical specifications and standards for highway development. 

This directive is applicable to the National Highways Authority of India, the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation of India, the Border Roads Organisation and state public works departments.

In areas where determining the environmental exposure condition is challenging, any zone within 15 km of the sea or a creek is classified as an extreme environment.

Union Minister Gadkari made stainless steel a topic of discussion when recently he upheld its high-tensile properties in the light of the statue of Shivaji Maharaj, which fell down, due to extreme weather conditions.