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Application of Highway Development and Management Tool for Low-Volume Roads
, B. Rathnakara Reddy K.
Published in SAGE Publications
2003
Volume: 1819
   
Issue: 1
Pages: 24 - 29
Abstract

Connectivity is a key component of rural development in developing countries. Traditionally, many road organizations budget and program for road works on a historical basis. An objective, needs-based approach is necessary with knowledge of the content, structure, and condition of the roads being managed. The Highway Development and Management Tool (HDM-4) provides a suitable framework for such an approach. From the available traffic and condition surveys, nine representative low-volume road sections with varying geometry and pavement condition are analyzed. The types of vehicles using the roads are two- and three-wheelers; standard medium buses; standard minibuses; light commercial vehicles; two-axle trucks, cars, and tractors among the motorized traffic; and bullock cart and bicycle among the nonmotorized traffic, which are the conventional modes of transport for low-volume roads in developing countries. The purpose of the study is to forecast budget requirements and predict performance trends by applying the strategy analysis of HDM-4 to low-volume roads. The analysis was carried out for two objective functions: to maximize the net present value and to minimize the total costs for a target international roughness index. The design period was 20 years; economic indicators were determined at a discount rate of 12%. Two investment alternatives, namely, a desired maintenance and an ideal maintenance, are compared with the do-minimum alternative. The study reveals that the strategy application of HDM-4 can be used for managing low-volume roads effectively. The tool will help in forecasting budget requirements and assessing the impact of various investment alternatives.

About the journal
JournalData powered by TypesetTransportation Research Board
PublisherData powered by TypesetSAGE Publications
Open AccessNo