BUILDING ROADS USING CEMENT VERSUS ASPHALT: AN OPEN DEBATE

BUILDING ROADS USING CEMENT VERSUS ASPHALT: AN OPEN DEBATE

It seems that since time immemorial, our farmers have been complaining about the lack of farm-to-market roads. These roads are essential for transporting produce efficiently, reducing waste, and ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their goods. However, for just as long, traditional politicians have been making grand promises to build these roads if elected, yet the reality remains unchanged. The question we must ask is: Why does this problem persist despite repeated commitments?

Personally, I am under the impression that many kilometers of new roads have been built through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme. Unfortunately, I could not find any reliable data detailing exactly how many kilometers have been completed. Transparency in infrastructure projects is crucial, and access to such information should be readily available to the public.

In my stay in the United States, I observed that most interstate highways are built using cement, though asphalt is also utilized in certain areas. Meanwhile, in Japan, China, and Israel, both materials are used without a clear preference. Thailand, on the other hand, appears to favor asphalt. These choices seem to be influenced by various factors, including climate, cost, and maintenance considerations.

One important factor to consider is the environmental impact of both materials. Cement production requires limestone extraction through open-pit mining, which can be highly destructive to the environment. Entire mountains have been leveled to obtain the raw materials for cement, leading to habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. On the other hand, asphalt is derived from petroleum, and while petroleum extraction is also environmentally damaging, asphalt itself is merely a byproduct of the refining process. Environmentalists remain divided on which of the two materials is more sustainable and eco-friendlier.

Given this ongoing debate, perhaps the government could sponsor consultation sessions where experts, environmentalists, and industry stakeholders can weigh in on the issue. A more informed and balanced approach to road construction would benefit both infrastructure development and environmental sustainability as it applies to our own local conditions.

Cost is another major consideration. While asphalt roads are initially cheaper to build, they require more frequent maintenance due to wear and tear. Concrete roads, though more expensive upfront, tend to have longer lifespans and lower maintenance costs. This raises an important question: Should we prioritize lower initial expenses or long-term durability and sustainability?

In addition to material choices, the construction and maintenance of farm-to-market roads need to be reevaluated. One potential solution is awarding contracts to local cooperatives under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) or PPP schemes. These cooperatives could be allowed to collect small toll fees to generate revenue for road maintenance. This approach could ensure continuous upkeep and empower local communities economically.

Furthermore, exploring innovative materials could provide sustainable alternatives. For instance, waste plastic can be integrated into asphalt roads, improving durability while addressing the growing plastic waste crisis. Countries such as India and the Netherlands have already adopted this technology with promising results.

However, concerns about microplastics from asphalt roads must also be addressed. Research indicates that as asphalt degrades, it releases microplastics into the environment, primarily through tire wear, road erosion, and runoff. These particles contribute to pollution and pose potential health risks. Similarly, the cement industry is exploring ways to reduce its carbon footprint, such as using alternative fuels and carbon capture technologies.

Ultimately, the choice between asphalt and cement should be based on a thorough life-cycle assessment, taking into account environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Instead of treating road construction as a political promise that rarely materializes, a structured and evidence-based approach must be adopted.

The government, private sector, and local communities must collaborate to find the best solutions for building and maintaining roads, especially in rural areas where infrastructure gaps are most pronounced. Only through strategic planning, innovative solutions, and accountability can we ensure that our roads serve their intended purpose: connecting people, facilitating trade, and driving economic growth.

Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres
iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com

03-12-2025