Updated On: 25 May, 2024 04:15 AM IST | Mumbai | Sameer Surve
New technology aims to improve efficiency and precision in Mumbai’s ongoing battle against potholes

Potholes were fixed on the Parel-Byculla flyover last year. File Pic/Ashish Raje
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to acquire an infrared road repair machine for addressing potholes. A decade ago, BMC acquired jet pitching machines, which ultimately remained unused for pothole repairs. Currently, BMC has initiated a tender process to obtain an infrared road repair machine. According to BMC officials, this technology has proven successful in Pune and Bengaluru, ensuring precise pothole filling. Moreover, it’s anticipated to significantly reduce the time required for repairs.
“We need to fill asphalt-based material into the machine, which will then clean the damaged surface and fill it with asphalt automatically. Additionally, it will not create bumps on the road like manual repairs. We have invited tenders for a two-year operation and 1-year extra maintenance after the defect liability period. That is why we haven’t estimated any costs,” officials said. According to reports, BMC procured 3 Inject pothole patching machines in 2009, which sparked controversy as BMC spent more than R60 crore, but these machines were never used to their full capacity.