CSIR-CRRI and JSW Steel Partner to Build Steel Slag Roads in Tamil Nadu | 28 Jan 2026

Why in News? 

In a landmark initiative to turn industrial waste into valuable infrastructure, the Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) has partnered with JSW Steel Limited, Salem Works, to construct roads using steel slag (By-product of steel manufacturing) in Tamil Nadu.

Key Points:

• Objective: To convert industrial by-products (waste) from steel manufacturing into high-quality aggregates for road construction. 
  • This is expected to result in durable, eco-friendly roads while significantly reducing the environmental footprint.  
• Technological Focus: The project utilizes the patented Steel Slag Road technology, developed by CSIR-CRRI, which has previously been successfully implemented in states like Gujarat, Jharkhand, and Arunachal Pradesh. 
• Valorisation Process: The collaboration focuses on the techno-economic conversion of Electric Optimization Furnace (EOF) and Ladle Refining Furnace (LRF) steel slag into processed aggregates for bituminous roads. 
• Demonstration Project: As part of the agreement, a demonstration road stretch will be constructed near Salem to validate field performance and durability. 
• Institutional Leadership: The MoA was signed in the presence of Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR and Secretary, DSIR, along with senior leadership from both organisations. 
• Promotes Circular Economy: Utilises industrial waste as a construction resource, advancing India’s resource efficiency and sustainable development goals. 
  • Environmental Benefits: Helps reduce carbon footprint and dependence on natural aggregates, thereby conserving natural resources and mitigating environmental degradation. 
• Regional Impact: This marks the first use of steel slag road technology in Tamil Nadu, potentially setting a precedent for wider adoption across Indian states.