Taking a step towards checking the menace of Multi Layered Plastics (MLP), PWD and Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB) are to work jointly on the use of MLP in the construction of roads. For research purpose a small experimental stretch was constructed on a road passing through village Ikolaha in Ludhiana with the use of MLP along with Bitumen. Later, the site test was conducted by Civil Engineering Department of Thapar University, Patiala who has reported it to be up to the mark. Hence, further pilot stretches of roads would be made with similar premix to work out the aggregate impact of MLP in terms of strength and durability of roads. Simultaneously, the result of the case study would be forwarded to Highway Research Board, IRC for formal approval and directions for the use of MLP along with other material, in the construction and repair of roads and the construction of pavements informed, Mr Vijay Inder Singla PWD Minister Punjab after an interaction with the departmental officers and the Chairman of Punjab Pollution Control Board.
He said that use of multi layered plastic for road and pavement construction which will not only channelize the use of waste but also help to get rid of environmental degradation due to unscientific disposal of this waste.Kahan Singh Pannu Chairman PPCB cum Mission Director Tandrust Punjab said that under the Tandarust Punjab Mission concerted efforts are afoot to check environmental degradation. He said that Multi Layered Plastic, the shiny cover in which many ready to eat snacks, chips and mouth fresheners are being sold is among the few materials that are non recyclable and have no alternative use. MLP keeps on accumulating in thousands of tons annually and is a critical threat to the ecosystem as it has no end use. The success of the joint efforts of PWD and PPCB towards the use of MLP in the construction of roads is a ray of hope, said he and added that this baby step can be a giant leap in days to come. The project is at a nascent stage but with the proactive support of Public Works Department Punjab carrying out experiments on select stretches would be easier. The findings would be shared with the concerned authorities and a positive outcome is expected said Pannu.