LETTERS: POTHOLES on roads damage vehicles and cause traffic disruptions. The issue needs more effective and sustainable maintenance solutions.
As cities grow and climate change intensifies, the demand for durable, eco-friendly road repair methods has never been greater.
According to media reports, as of April this year the people have reported a staggering 14,031 complaints of damaged roads on the MyJalan app since it was introduced in August last year.
Potholes form when water infiltrates the road surface, weakening the underlying layers. As temperatures fluctuate, the soil foundation shrinks and expands, leading to cracks and, eventually, leaves gaping holes in the road.
Heavy traffic exacerbates the issue, causing further deterioration and making roads hazardous for drivers.
Each year, the government spends billions on road repairs.
However, traditional repair methods often provide only a temporary fix, leading to a cycle of recurring maintenance.
The production and application of hot-mix asphalt, the most common material used for pothole repair, require substantial energy and release large amounts of greenhouse gases.
Additionally, the extraction of raw materials, such as aggregates and bitumen, depletes natural resources and disrupts ecosystems.
Frequent repairs also contribute to increased waste, as old asphalt and other materials are often discarded.
As concerns about climate change and resource depletion grow, the need for more sustainable road maintenance practices becomes urgent.
Preventive maintenance and the use of high-quality materials are crucial to extending the lifespan of roads.
Local authorities should consider adopting sustainable maintenance practices such as:
RECYCLED-ASPHALT PAVEMENT (RAP): Using recycled materials in road construction and repair is one of the most promising approaches to sustainability.
Reusing old asphalt not only conserves resources but also lowers the carbon footprint of road repairs.
COLD-MIX ASPHALT: Unlike traditional hot mix asphalt, cold mix asphalt is produced at lower temperatures, significantly reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
It can be applied in cooler weather, making it a versatile option for repairing potholes year-round.
WARM-MIX ASPHALT (WMA): Similar to cold mix, WMA is produced at lower temperatures than traditional asphalt, resulting in less energy use and fewer emissions.
Additionally, WMA is easier to work with, allowing it to be transported for longer distances and reduces the number of production sites.
POLYURETHANE FOAM INJECTION: This cutting-edge technique for stabilising and repairing road surfaces involves injecting a lightweight, expansive foam beneath the top layer.
This foam lifts and stabilises the pavement, fills voids and prevents further deterioration. It is a quick, efficient and sustainable option that minimises the need for extensive excavation and material use.
The transition to sustainable road maintenance practices requires a concerted effort from municipalities, engineers and the construction industry.
Investing in these innovative solutions not only addresses the problem of potholes but also contributes to broader environmental goals, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources.
Policymakers must prioritise sustainable road maintenance technologies and incentivise the adoption of green practices.
Awareness campaigns about the benefits of sustainable road maintenance will encourage public support for these initiatives.
By embracing new technologies and materials, we can move toward a future where our roads are safer, more durable and kinder to the environment.
DR DIANA CHE LAT
Senior lecturer, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Pasir Gudang, Johor
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times