Identification of parameters affecting the road condition in low volume roads

Abstract

It is an essential requirement to identify parameters affecting the road condition and give solution to the problems in low volume roads, because lack of such knowledge has resulted in many problems and waste of valuable resources. For the need of wide database, data was collected through discussion with Engineers, and observed data from field visits in Badulla, Diyathalawa and Mahiyanganaya and Wellawaya Engineering divisions. These data were statistically analyzed using SPSS software to identify significant relationships between parameters considered. The identified important parameters affecting the road condition were drainage condition, traffic volume, terrain, land use, material used and carriage way width. These parameters were prioritized in producing the set of guidelines for planning, design and material selection, and construction and maintenance phases. A GIS map was also produced to indicate the existing road conditions as a tool for identifying access needs during planning process of roads. A sample inventory of road infrastructure was prepared to demonstrate how to use collected information during planning, design, construction and operation stage of low volume roads.