The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has introduced strict timelines for road repairs following a directive from the Gujarat government aimed at addressing recurring pothole problems and improving road quality.
Under the new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), municipal corporations must conduct comprehensive road inspections before and after every monsoon. The AMC commissioner has directed the engineering department to implement the guidelines strictly and ensure accountability for poor-quality roadwork.
According to the SOP, roads with dangerous damage that pose an immediate risk to commuters must be repaired within 48 hours. Defects on concrete roads must be addressed within 15 days, while minor patchwork must be completed within 30 days.
Officials must also upload photographs of completed repairs to the civic application within 72 hours, allowing authorities to monitor the progress of road maintenance work.
Quality Checks Made Mandatory
The new guidelines place emphasis on quality control and proper planning to prevent roads from deteriorating soon after repairs.
Contractors and Project Management Consultants (PMCs) must submit detailed quality assurance plans before beginning hot-mix asphalt work. Municipal officials and design consultants must also jointly inspect roads identified for milling, resurfacing or regrading.
The process aims to improve the quality of road construction and reduce repeated repair work.
RCC Roads Planned for High-Traffic Areas
The SOP gives special attention to roads in areas affected by weak soil, black cotton soil, high water tables and chronic waterlogging, which can contribute to road damage.
Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) roads have been prioritised for industrial areas with heavy vehicle movement, Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) corridors, accident-prone locations and stretches that require frequent repairs.
The guidelines also require authorities to repair or rehabilitate underground drainage systems, stormwater lines and manholes before undertaking fresh road resurfacing projects.
The new measures are intended to improve road durability, reduce recurring potholes and ensure that civic authorities complete repairs within defined deadlines.