Reaction from the field
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is making significant strides in sustainable infrastructure and drone technology, with initiatives that promise to transform waste management and enhance industrial capabilities. The urgency of these developments is underscored by the pressing need for environmentally sustainable practices in India’s rapidly growing infrastructure sector.
Leading the charge, the CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) is pioneering the use of Waste Foundry Sand in road construction. This initiative aims to convert a by-product of the metal casting industry into a valuable resource, thereby reducing dependency on natural aggregates. The collaboration with the Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF) is crucial, as it seeks to develop innovative solutions for managing the significant quantities of waste generated by the Coimbatore foundry cluster, which is home to around 800–1000 foundry units.
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, a prominent figure in this initiative, emphasized the importance of utilizing industrial by-products like Waste Foundry Sand, stating, “The utilization of industrial by-products like Waste Foundry Sand in road construction reflects CSIR’s commitment to sustainable development and circular economy.” This sentiment is echoed by Sushil Sharma, who noted that the project addresses the challenges of waste management while contributing to infrastructure growth.
In parallel, CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has made significant advancements in drone technology. The transfer of technology for the QPlane eVTOL drone to KRR Aerospace marks a pivotal moment for mass production in this sector. Designed for multi-sector use, including defense, agriculture, and logistics, the QPlane drone features fully electric propulsion and vertical take-off and landing capabilities, with an operational range of approximately 20 km.
Dr. Ch. Ravi Sekhar highlighted CSIR-CRRI’s role in developing sustainable and innovative road technologies, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges. The collaboration with Suyog Elements India Pvt. Ltd. further strengthens the initiative, as it aims to promote environmentally sustainable road construction practices.
The overarching goal of these initiatives is to support the Government of India’s vision of a circular economy and green infrastructure. By converting waste into valuable resources, CSIR is not only addressing immediate environmental concerns but also paving the way for future innovations in infrastructure development.
As these projects unfold, the potential for further advancements in sustainable practices and technologies remains high. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the full scope of the impact these initiatives will have on the industry and the environment.
