Mumbai: BMC organises workshop at IIT-B to improve quality of CC roads

In a major step towards improving the quality and durability of Mumbai’s road infrastructure, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) engineers on Saturday received a one-day brainstorming and technical training workshop at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay. 

As per the civic authorities, over 300 BMC engineers participated in the programme, which aimed at the evaluation of completed and ongoing cement concrete (CC) road works across the city.

The workshop organised by the BMC focused on equipping engineers with scientific, technical and practical knowledge related to the planning, execution and quality control of cement concrete roads. 

During the programme at IIT Bombay, representatives from the Quality Monitoring Agency (QMA) and contracting firms were also present, ensuring a comprehensive discussion involving all key stakeholders.

Focus on quality and best practices

The BMC has undertaken cement concrete (CC) road works on a large scale, and the workshop was organised as part of the civic body’s efforts to ensure high-quality and long-lasting road construction. 

Furthermore, the engineers were trained on the use of state-of-the-art construction technology, best practices to follow on site, common mistakes to avoid, and solutions to challenges faced during implementation.

The workshop was inaugurated with a keynote address by Prof. Dr K V Krishna Rao, a noted civil engineering expert from IIT Bombay. 

Emphasising the importance of third-party auditing, he emphasised, “A practical, field-orientated approach combined with technical cooperation is essential to make Mumbai’s road infrastructure more robust, sustainable and durable.”

Addressing the gathering, Additional Commissioner (Projects) Abhijit Bangar said, “The cement concrete road programme, which began in October 2023, has achieved around 60 per cent completion, with the remaining work progressing despite several challenges.”

The Commissioner further added, “Mumbai’s high population density and congested urban environment make this a highly complex project. However, the work is being carried out in a planned and effective manner.”

Stressing that it is mandatory for engineers to be present at project sites during execution to ensure quality outcomes, Bangar enlightened the gathering with a more organised approach towards road infrastructure in Mumbai. 

Bangar also added, “Good riding quality enhances road lifespan and reduces maintenance costs. Proper utilisation of service ducts can prevent repeated road digging,” urging engineers to prioritise both aspects.

Technical Guidance from Experts

As per the civic authority, observations from site visits and technical inspections were also reviewed during the workshop at IIT Bombay. Professor KV Krishna Rao and Professor Solomon Debbarma also provided detailed guidance on:

• Use of quality materials in concrete mixing
• Proper transportation of concrete from RMC plants to worksites
• Precautions during concrete pouring
• Timely joint cutting after pouring
• Effective curing methods

Experts suggest protective netting around tree trunks

Experts also suggested that protective netting around tree trunks could help create additional space for pedestrians on footpaths.

During the workshop, senior BMC officials, including Deputy Commissioner (Infrastructure) Girish Nikam and Chief Engineer (Roads and Transport) Mantayya Swami, were also present at the workshop.

The civic body said that it will continue to engage with technical institutions like IIT Bombay to maintain continuous technical dialogue, strengthen quality control mechanisms, and deliver safer, smoother, and more durable roads for Mumbai.