Chapter -II(Geometric Design of
Highway)
Definition of Camber:
Camber is the transverse slope or curvature provided to the road surface to drain off
rainwater from the pavement surface. It is the slope given from the center of the road
towards the edges.
Also known as: Cross slope
Provided in: Straight reaches of the road, not on curves
Purpose of Providing Camber:
1. Quick drainage of rainwater from the road surface
2. To protect the subgrade by preventing water infiltration
3. To increase the durability of pavement surface
4. To ensure safety by avoiding water logging and skidding
5. To maintain riding comfort and reduce maintenance
Types of Camber (As per IRC Recommendations):
1. Straight Camber:
- Surface has two straight slopes meeting at the crown
- Commonly used on rural roads
- Simple to construct
- Not preferred in high-speed roads due to sudden slope change
2. Parabolic Camber:
- Surface follows a parabolic curve from crown to edges
- Smoother transition
- Recommended for high-speed roads
- IRC prefers this type due to better riding quality and drainage
3. Combination of Straight and Parabolic Camber:
- Straight near the edges and parabolic near the crown
- IRC recommends this for bituminous roads
- Combines ease of construction with better performance
IRC Recommended Camber Values (As per Surface Type):
Type of Road Surface Camber (Cross Slope) as per IRC
Cement Concrete 1 in 72 to 1 in 100
Bituminous Surface 1 in 48 to 1 in 60
Gravel/WBM Roads 1 in 36 to 1 in 48
Earth Roads 1 in 20 to 1 in 33
Factors Affecting Camber Design:
• Type of pavement surface
• Intensity of rainfall in the region
• Traffic speed
• Availability of construction materials
• Terrain condition
Kerbs (or Curbs):
Definition:
A kerb is a boundary or raised edge made of stone, concrete, or asphalt placed at the edge of
the pavement to define the limits of the carriageway and provide structural support.
Purpose of Kerbs:
• To separate the carriageway from footpaths or medians
• To provide lateral support to the pavement edge
• To channel rainwater to drainage inlets
• To enhance road safety and appearance
Types of Kerbs:
6. Low or Mountable Kerb: Rounded and low in height. Allows vehicles to climb over (used
in medians).
7. Semi-barrier Kerb: Moderate height. Discourages vehicles from leaving the carriageway.
8. Barrier Kerb: High vertical face. Strongly restricts vehicle entry (used on highways).
9. Submerged Kerb: Hidden below ground level. Used in rural roads mainly for drainage
guidance.
Road Margin:
Definition:The area lying between the edge of the carriageway and the boundary of the right
of way. It includes shoulders, footpaths, drainage, and landscaping areas.
Components of Road Margin:
• Shoulders – for emergency parking and pedestrian movement
• Footpaths – for pedestrian use
• Cycle tracks – in urban roads
• Drainage – side drains for water flow
• Plantation area – for aesthetic and environmental purposes
Importance:
• Provides space for emergencies
• Protects pavement edge from damage
• Accommodates public utilities
Road Formation:
Definition:Road formation refers to the entire prepared surface on which different layers of
the road pavement are constructed, including the subgrade.
Components:
• Subgrade – prepared natural soil
• Sub-base – optional, used to improve strength
• Base course – main load-carrying layer
• Surface course – top layer (bituminous or concrete)
Typical Formation Width Includes:
• Carriageway width, Shoulders, Footpaths (if any)
Right of Way (ROW):
Definition:
The total land width acquired for the construction of the road including all its components
(carriageway, shoulders, margins, drainage, etc.)
Purpose:
• To provide space for future widening
• For drainage, landscaping, footpaths, and utilities
• Ensures safe visibility and movement
IRC Recommended ROW (Minimum Values):
Class of Road ROW (in meters)
National Highways (NH) 45 - 60 m
State Highways (SH) 30 - 45 m
Major District Roads 25 - 30 m
Other District Roads 15 - 25 m
Village Roads 12 - 18 m
