Mumbai: Shiv Sena MLC Manisha Kayande on Wednesday urged the state government to constitute an expert committee to study whether asphalt roads can be built and maintained effectively, even in regions that receive heavy rainfall.Speaking during a discussion in the legislative council, Kayande said several cities abroad witness intense rainfall yet continue to maintain asphalt roads in good condition. She noted that Maharashtra too has examples of asphalt roads that have remained durable for years with proper maintenance.While acknowledging that cement concrete roads generally have a longer lifespan and require less frequent upkeep, Kayande highlighted emerging concerns linked to rising temperatures. With parts of Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region recently recording high maximum temperatures, she said concrete roads tend to absorb and radiate more heat, contributing to the urban heat effect.Kayande also pointed to complaints about the impact of high road-surface temperatures on vehicles, including instances of tyre damage and bursting. Referring to neighbouring states where asphalt roads remain largely free of potholes despite similar weather conditions, she questioned why such standards cannot be achieved in Maharashtra.She also raised concerns over rapid urbanisation and shrinking green cover. “While builders advertise ‘forest views’ from residential towers, trees are being cut and environmental safeguards are not keeping pace,” she said. Kayande noted that many housing societies have still not implemented rainwater harvesting systems.Highlighting pedestrian issues, the MLC said Mumbai lacks uniform standards for footpaths, many of which are encroached upon by hawkers and temporary stalls. As a result, walking remains difficult and unsafe, particularly for senior citizens.“Ease of walking is still not a reality in Mumbai. Many elderly residents are unable to comfortably step out and walk on city roads,” she said, calling for urgent improvements in pedestrian infrastructure.
