In a major move towards promoting sustainable and cost-efficient road infrastructure, the CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI), New Delhi, showcased its indigenously developed Modified Mix Seal Surfacing Plus (MSS+) Technology before V. Srinivas, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan, at the Rajasthan Secretariat.
The presentation highlighted the potential of the technology to improve road maintenance practices while reducing environmental impact, energy consumption and overall expenditure. The initiative is part of CSIR’s efforts to support state governments in adopting innovative and low-carbon technologies developed through indigenous research and development.
The technical presentation was delivered by Satish Pandey, Senior Principal Scientist and Head of the Flexible Pavement Division at CSIR-CRRI. The programme was attended by Praveen Gupta, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department, Government of Rajasthan; D.R. Meghwal, Secretary, PWD Rajasthan; Mookesh Bhati, Chief Engineer (Roads), and other senior officials of the Public Works Department.
Focus on green and cost-effective road infrastructure
During the presentation, Pandey explained the scientific principles behind MSS+ Technology and discussed its field performance, economic benefits and environmental advantages.
According to CSIR-CRRI, the technology is designed to enhance pavement durability and extend the service life of roads while lowering construction-related emissions and energy requirements. It also has the potential to reduce maintenance costs, making it suitable for preventive road maintenance and long-term road asset management.
The initiative follows a communication from CSIR Director General and Secretary, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India, Dr N. Kalaiselvi, to the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan. The communication encouraged the state government to consider indigenous green road technologies developed by CSIR-CRRI for sustainable infrastructure development.
Live demonstration held on Jaipur road
Following the technical presentation, CSIR-CRRI conducted a live demonstration of MSS+ Technology on a road in Jaipur. The demonstration featured the MSS+ Smart Mix Pro Automatic Plant, described by the institute as India’s first indigenously developed automatic mobile mixing plant specifically designed for Modified Mix Seal Surfacing.
Developed by CSIR-CRRI, the mobile plant automates the proportioning and mixing of materials. This helps maintain consistency in the mix, reduce material wastage and minimise manual intervention during road works.
The automated system is also intended to accelerate road construction and maintenance operations. During the demonstration, officials observed the execution process, construction speed, surface finish and operational efficiency of the technology.
Rajasthan evaluates wider adoption
The demonstration drew appreciation from participating officials, who noted the potential of MSS+ Technology to improve the quality, durability and sustainability of road maintenance activities across Rajasthan.
Praveen Kumar Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Public Works Department, said Rajasthan is committed to adopting innovative and environmentally responsible technologies that can improve the quality and longevity of its road infrastructure. He described MSS+ Technology and the Smart Mix Pro Automatic Plant as promising solutions for preventive maintenance, particularly because of their faster execution, enhanced quality control and lower environmental impact.
The state government has expressed interest in evaluating the technology for broader use under its road construction and maintenance programmes.
Proven performance in Uttar Pradesh
CSIR-CRRI said MSS+ Technology has already been deployed across more than 100 kilometres of roads in Uttar Pradesh. The institute reported that the technology has demonstrated strong field performance, improved pavement durability and cost-effective maintenance.
The experience in Uttar Pradesh is expected to provide a basis for assessing the technology’s suitability for larger-scale implementation in Rajasthan and other states.
The initiative reinforces CSIR-CRRI’s broader focus on developing indigenous technologies for sustainable infrastructure development. By combining resource efficiency, reduced environmental impact and improved road performance, MSS+ Technology could contribute to more resilient and economical road maintenance practices in India.
Also Read: Government Reaffirms Transparency and Strong Safeguards in Implementation of RDI Fund
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
