Factors Contributing To Generation of Physical and Non-Physical Wastes In Road Projects

Abstract

Roads are major contributors towards the GDP of any nation. The Indian economy’s growth majorly depends on the road network. As the Indian road network carries a major population of passenger and freight traffic, development and expansion of this is vital for improving the living standards and fostering economic development. Even though the need for road infrastructure is critical, the road development industry faces many setbacks. Common problems like Land Acquisition, delay in obtaining Environment and Forest clearances and other regulatory approvals indicate a red signal before the project plans are put forth for execution. Lack of standardization in the various procedures at all phases in the project life cycle; diminish the interest of stakeholders in investing their time and money in road projects. The paper mainly discusses about absence of sustainable approach in managing the time, capital and material employed in the road projects by the stakeholders; who include the promoter, consultant and the road contractors. It is elaborated through certain factors that lead to Physical wastes (material wastes) and Non-Physical wastes (Schedule delay and Cost overrun). This paper discusses about sustainable approach that should be imbibed in the activities of all the stakeholders; through the provision of solutions for minimizing the major Physical and Non-Physical wastes that arises at all the phases of the road project.