Nestled in the heart of Jharkhand, India, Jamshedpur is a city that often resonates with the clinking of steel. This industrial hub, known for its extensive steel production, is also a beacon of environmental innovation and cleanliness, thanks in large part to the efforts of Jamshedpur Utilities and Services Company (JUSCO). A Tata enterprise, JUSCO was carved out of Tata Steel’s Town Services Division in 2004 and has since been instrumental in enhancing the city’s infrastructure and sustainability initiatives.

One of JUSCO’s remarkable achievements is the construction of roads made from waste plastic. This innovative approach addresses two significant challenges simultaneously: managing plastic waste and improving road quality. According to the contractors involved in the project, the process involves amalgamating 90% bitumen with 10% shredded plastic waste. This waste includes everyday items like carry bags, biscuit wrappers, and gutka packets, which are then mixed with bitumen to create a durable and eco-friendly road surface.

The benefits of these plastic-cum-tar roads are substantial. They are 25% more resilient than unmodified roads and almost 200% more resistant to water absorption. This significantly reduces the maintenance costs and enhances the longevity of the roads, which reportedly require no repairs for at least five years. By integrating waste plastic into road construction, JUSCO not only recycles plastic effectively but also prevents further environmental degradation.

As someone with deep ties to Jamshedpur, I am immensely proud of this progressive stride towards sustainability. Our apartment in this city has been a witness to the positive changes brought about by such initiatives. Though my mother breathed her last here, her spirit remains intertwined with Jamshedpur’s journey towards becoming a greener and cleaner city.

In a world grappling with plastic pollution and deteriorating infrastructure, JUSCO’s plastic roads stand as a testament to innovation and responsibility. This initiative is a shining example of how industrial cities can balance growth with environmental stewardship, paving the way for a sustainable future.