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Mr. Mehul Jain, Vice President,

Pavers and Blocks Manufacturers Association & Managing Director, 

Vyara Tiles Ltd.

What inspired PBMA to host the 13th International Conference on Concrete Block Pavement (ICCBP) in India, and why was Hyderabad selected as the venue?

India is a large and growing market for concrete block pavements, with applications that are practical, economical, and increasingly relevant to urban and infrastructure development. At the same time, there is significant value in bringing wider global knowledge on design, production, installation, and long-term performance to the Indian market. As the leading industry body, PBMA felt that hosting ICCBP in India would help raise awareness, strengthen technical understanding, and give further momentum to the paving industry. Since the conference is held only once every three years internationally, it is a matter of pride for us to bring this edition to India. Hyderabad was chosen as the venue because it offers strong connectivity, a suitable convention ecosystem, and a vibrant infrastructure and construction backdrop for an event of this scale.

ICCBP has a long global legacy since 1980. How does the 2026 edition aim to contribute to the evolution of concrete block pavement technology and sustainable infrastructure?

ICCBP 2026 aims to bring together current international thinking and practical experience in concrete block pavement technology, with sustainability as a central theme. The conference program reflects this through sessions on ecological and sustainability aspects, pavement design, performance and maintenance, production technology, and new material approaches. Topics such as geopolymer concrete, carbonation curing, curing efficiency, and the productive use of industrial by-products and waste materials show how the industry is evolving toward more resource-efficient and climate-conscious solutions.

What are the key themes or focus areas that delegates and industry professionals can expect from this year’s conference sessions and discussions?

This year’s conference will cover a broad yet focused set of themes, including pavement design, performance and maintenance, ecological and sustainability aspects, production technology and materials, and road construction. There is also a strong practical component through exhibitor sessions on automation, curing, machinery, and manufacturing systems. Overall, delegates can expect discussions around sustainability, alternative binders, productive use of waste and secondary materials, improved design methods, and advances in both pavement construction and pavement unit production.

The conference brings together researchers, manufacturers, engineers, and policymakers. How important is such cross-industry collaboration for the future of pavement technology?

It is extremely important. In a busy industry, daily execution often leaves limited room to step back and engage with emerging ideas and international best practices. A conference like ICCBP creates a valuable platform where researchers, manufacturers, engineers, consultants, and decision-makers can exchange knowledge directly. That kind of cross-disciplinary interaction helps the sector progress in a more integrated manner, rather than in isolated silos, and ultimately supports better standards, faster learning, and stronger outcomes across the industry.

How do you see the role of concrete block pavements evolving in the context of smart cities, sustainable urban planning, and climate-resilient infrastructure?

Concrete block pavements have a very important role to play in this context. They offer design flexibility, ease of maintenance, and strong suitability for urban applications. From a sustainability standpoint, they also provide meaningful scope for incorporating supplementary cementitious materials, geopolymer systems, and selected industrial by-products more effectively than many other construction products. In addition, developments around permeable pavements, durable precast systems, and more sustainable manufacturing approaches make them increasingly relevant to climate-resilient and liveable urban infrastructure.

What opportunities will ICCBP 2026 provide for manufacturers, technology providers, and startups in the paving and construction ecosystem?

ICCBP 2026 will provide a strong platform for learning, visibility, and networking. Manufacturers and technology providers will be able to engage with international experts, understand emerging technologies and materials, benchmark themselves against global developments, and build new professional relationships. For startups and newer players, the conference offers an especially valuable opportunity to gain exposure, understand industry requirements more deeply, and connect with potential collaborators, customers, and technology partners.

What message would you like to share with industry professionals who are considering attending ICCBP 2026?

ICCBP 2026 is a rare opportunity to network, upgrade technical understanding, and gain a deeper perspective on a sector that is becoming increasingly important in modern construction and infrastructure. Whether one is involved in manufacturing, design, execution, research, or policy, the conference offers both global exposure and practical insight. We would warmly encourage industry professionals to attend and make the most of this international forum in India.