Odisha Explores Terrazyme Technology for Sustainable and Cost-Effective Road Construction

Bio-enzyme solution promises durable, eco-friendly roads while reducing costs and carbon emissions

Bhubaneswar : In a forward-looking step toward sustainable infrastructure, the Odisha government is exploring the use of Terrazyme, a bio-enzymatic soil stabilizer, to construct stronger, cost-effective, and eco-friendly roads. The initiative, if implemented, could reshape the state’s approach to infrastructure development while minimizing environmental impact.

High-Level Review on New Technology

A review meeting chaired by Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan examined the potential application of Terrazyme in road construction projects across the state. The meeting brought together senior engineers, consultants, and policymakers, who discussed the benefits and feasibility of introducing the technology in both rural and urban areas.

The minister stressed the importance of innovative solutions that balance infrastructure growth with ecological responsibility. He directed officials of the Works Department and the Odisha Bridge & Construction Corporation (OBCC) to prepare a comprehensive feasibility report, focusing particularly on eco-sensitive and forested zones where sustainable practices are crucial.

Terrazyme is a soil stabilizer made from natural plant extracts. Non-toxic and biodegradable, it works by altering the properties of soil at a molecular level, making it denser, stronger, and more resistant to wear and tear. Unlike conventional road construction materials such as stone, gravel, cement, and asphalt, Terrazyme-treated roads require fewer resources, significantly reducing costs.

Experts highlighted that roads built with Terrazyme are not only more durable but also require less maintenance, making them economically viable in the long run. Additionally, the technology helps reduce surface heat, dust pollution, and carbon emissions, providing multiple environmental benefits.

Advantages for Odisha’s Terrain

Odisha’s diverse geography, from coastal plains to hilly forest regions, often poses challenges in infrastructure development. Officials observed that Terrazyme could be particularly effective in forested and biodiversity-rich areas, where conventional methods may harm the environment. The eco-friendly nature of the product aligns with the government’s broader sustainability agenda while ensuring better connectivity in remote areas.

Minister Harichandan noted that adopting such innovations could position Odisha as a leader in green infrastructure, complementing national goals of reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainable development.

Focus on Cost and Durability

Cost efficiency was another key point of discussion during the meeting. Traditional road-building methods require extensive use of aggregates, bitumen, and cement—all of which contribute to high construction and maintenance expenses. Terrazyme reduces dependency on these materials by strengthening the existing soil base, lowering both initial construction costs and future repair expenditures.

Senior officials suggested that pilot projects in selected districts could help assess real-world performance and fine-tune implementation strategies.

Participation and Inputs

The review meeting saw participation from Banapur Block Chairman Amarendra Ranasingh, OBCC Consultant Jayakrishna Das, Additional Chief Engineer Sridhar Raut, and other senior Works Department officials. The experts emphasized that Terrazyme has already been tested in parts of India and abroad, with successful outcomes in terms of road life and environmental safety.

Their inputs will be consolidated into the upcoming feasibility report, which will guide the state’s decision-making on large-scale adoption.

A Step Towards Eco-Friendly Infrastructure

If approved, the adoption of Terrazyme could mark a paradigm shift in Odisha’s road construction strategy. By combining cost savings with sustainability, the state can achieve faster connectivity, reduced ecological damage, and long-lasting infrastructure—all vital for inclusive growth.

The government is expected to take a final call once the feasibility report is submitted. For now, the initiative has generated optimism among policymakers, environmentalists, and infrastructure experts alike, who see it as a rare opportunity to balance development with environmental stewardship.