RURAL ROAD CONSTRUCTION IN HILLY REGIONS OF NEPAL

Abstract

This paper makes a review of geological and engineering aspects of rural road construction in hilly regions of
Nepal. First general background on geological, climate and socio-economic are briefly introduced followed by the five
zone mountain model for Nepal Himalayas. Then, alignment selection of rural roads in reference to the five zone
mountain model is discussed. The impact of road cross section designs and constructions on mountain slopes has been
studied. The width of cut is a key geometrical design parameter that has significant impact to slope vulnerability and
volume of excavation. The choice of cut width in cross-section is reviewed and the appropriate cut widths is
recommended in cross-sections in function of the terrain slope and soil conditions for minimisation of slope failures and
volume of excavation.