Runways and Roads: Infrastructure Challenges and the Need for Standards | Dr. P P Devan | Global TV
Infrastructure is the backbone of any country’s development. Two key elements; runways and roads, play a crucial role in transportation and connectivity. While Indian aviation has evolved significantly, the quality and durability of roads remain a concern. We need to explore the realities in engineering, maintenance, and challenges faced in both sectors, along with the need for stringent quality standards. The discussion between Dr. PP Devan and Group Captain Daniel Victor is very meaningful and worth sharing. We have the right for the best.
Runways in India: Evolution and Challenges | Early Runways: A Military-Centric Approach
In the early days, aviation infrastructure in India was primarily developed for the Air Force. Civil aviation was not widespread, and most runways catered to military aircraft, specifically fighter jets. The strength, surface, and durability of these runways were designed to handle high-speed, high-impact landings of fighter planes.
With the expansion of civil aviation, several airbases, such as those in Srinagar and Amritsar, had to be modified to accommodate commercial aircraft. This required strengthening the runways and adding facilities like passenger terminals, luggage handling systems, and navigation support.
Runway Construction: Strength and Limitations
The core factor determining the quality of a runway is its ability to withstand different aircraft loads. Fighter jets have engines placed lower, increasing the risk of debris ingestion, which can cause severe engine damage. In contrast, transport aircraft have higher-mounted engines, making them less susceptible to such risks.
Certain regions, such as Leh in northern India, pose additional challenges due to extreme weather conditions. The bitumen used in runway surfaces has a freezing point, beyond which it becomes brittle and prone to cracking.
When this happens, small aggregates loosen, creating debris that can be sucked into jet engines. In such cases, runways must either be closed for fighters or used only for transport aircraft.
Runway Maintenance and Backup Strategies
For operational efficiency, airports must have contingency plans in case a runway is deemed unfit for use. This includes:
Parallel Runways
Some airports have a second runway to divert flights in emergencies. However, in remote locations like Leh, there is often no parallel runway, making maintenance even more critical.
Diversions
If a runway is compromised, aircraft may be rerouted to another airport with suitable landing conditions.
Testing and Quality Checks
Runway surfaces undergo stringent quality assessments. Special tests, such as simulating rainfall using fire tenders, help identify undulations where water may collect, weakening the bitumen and leading to long-term damage.
Lighting Systems
Runway lights are crucial for nighttime operations. While reflective paint can aid visibility, it is ineffective in low-light conditions. Multiple backup systems are in place, but rare failures can still cause flight cancellations, as witnessed in Mangalore.
Indian Roads: A Case for Higher Standards | The State of Indian Roads
While India has made significant progress in building national highways, road quality remains inconsistent. Many roads, even newly constructed ones, lack smooth surfaces and have undulations that affect driving comfort and safety. Despite paying road taxes, commuters often face subpar infrastructure, leading to accidents and vehicle damage.
Why Roads Need Certification Standards
Just as industries follow ISO certifications for quality assurance, roads should also be subject to stringent evaluations. Key recommendations include:
Mandatory Quality Certification
Roads should be inspected and certified before being opened to the public. If they fail quality checks, they must be shut down for repairs.
Accountability for Engineers and Contractors
Substandard roads should have legal and financial repercussions for those responsible. A portion of the contractor’s payment can be held until the road meets strict benchmarks.
Dedicated Government Department for Roads
Instead of outsourcing to multiple private contractors, India should establish a Department of Roads that oversees construction and maintenance with a long-term vision.
The Way Forward: Infrastructure as a National Priority
Both runways and roads require precise engineering, regular maintenance, and high-quality materials to ensure long-term usability. While India has made strides in aviation infrastructure, road construction needs a structured, transparent, and accountable approach. If quality certifications become the norm, the country can prevent costly repairs, reduce accidents, and improve overall transportation efficiency. Perhaps, in the future, strong leadership and policy changes could revolutionize the way India builds and maintains its critical infrastructure.
