2. February 2014

COVER STORY
Planning and Design
The Department of Roads (DOR) and the Kathmandu
Metropolitan City (KMC) are currently responsible for land
allocation, budget and construction controlled through the road
planning process. Designs are sketched prior to construction;
budget and land allocations are tabled to concerned
departments and organizations. Road architecture is undertaken
before the actual construction itself begins. The alarming rate
at which road problems such as undulations, potholes, rutting,
cracking, deformations and pollution are on the rise in Nepal
necessitate an overhaul and rethink of the entire road planning
and design paradigm with necessary weight put on road
standards and technology.
Both urban and rural road architecture in Nepal exhibit immense
room for improvement. In the hinterlands, local road user
groups were formed to manage the road infrastructure in
Rupandehi, Palpa, Dhading, Dolakha, Parbat and Ilam districts.
Would an increase in toll or road tax necessarily translate into
better and improved roads? Cities function like arteries of the
human body; if an artery is blocked or congested, the entire
system suffers. Well-known architect Jah Gehl coined the
phrase: “We shape cities, and the cities shape us.” Appropriate
and sustainable designs and technology must be prioritized at all
levels of the road planning and design processes. Spaces had a
insightful conversation with Dr. Biswa Ranjan Singh Shahi from
the Department of Road who holds considerable understanding
and experience having worked as a chief engineer, material
engineer, geo-tech engineer and road engineer.
What is principal source for road
materials?
The Government helps in locating
the sources but this must be
supported by geological research.
We must remember that all these
resources derive from nature.
My research study with a
World Bank Project in 1992
on resources materials
was conducted primarily
to understand the
quantity and the quality
of the resources needed. The research results were shared
with various departments. However, negligence has now led to
drastic consequences as our resources are receding. We import
different kinds of bitumen from India, Singapore and Iran and
these are scientifically tested for suitability and durability.
In architectural terms, is there room for improvement?
We are still optimistic - we coordinate among the Private Sector
and Government departments with significant information
exchange and technological enhancements involved. Priority is
given to road architecture as it is extremely important; aspects such
as road inclination, smoothness, road geometry, super elevation,
safe distances and lighting are now of critical value. We must
apply the International Roughness Index (IRI) as the standard in
smoothness, beauty and to prevent skidding. Roadside pavements
for the elderly, disabled and bicycle lanes, aesthetics and a sound
environmental consciousness are vital necessities now.
FEBRUARY 2014 / 27