IRC Code 35: A Comprehensive Guide to Road Markings in India

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Road markings are one of the most vital elements of traffic management and road safety. In India, these markings are standardized under IRC Code 35, formally titled “Code of Practice for Road Markings”. Updated in 2015, this code outlines the specifications, dimensions, materials, color codes, and application methods that ensure consistent, clear, and safe road guidance across Indian roads.

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In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about IRC Code 35, including its classification system, material guidelines, marking designs, and practical implementation for various road types.

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What is IRC Code 35?

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IRC Code 35 is a nationally recognized code issued by the Indian Roads Congress that lays down the uniform system of road markings to be used on all types of roads—urban and rural, divided and undivided, expressways and local streets. Originally published in 1970, the code was revised in 1997 and then again in 2015 to accommodate modern traffic conditions, improved materials, and road safety requirements.

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Purpose and Importance of Road Markings

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Road markings serve as visual guides to control and channelize traffic. Their importance lies in the fact that they:

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• Provide continuous visual guidance for road users, especially at night or during adverse weather.

• Serve as a psychological barrier to warn and guide traffic.

• Indicate the division of lanes, overtaking zones, pedestrian crossings, and more.

• Reduce the reliance on vertical signage, especially on fast-moving roads.

• Help cyclists and pedestrians navigate roads safely.

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Types of Road Markings Under IRC Code 35

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IRC Code 35 classifies pavement markings into seven main categories:

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1. Longitudinal Markings

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These are lines drawn along the direction of traffic. They guide lane discipline and regulate overtaking. Examples include broken lines for lane division, solid lines for no-overtaking zones, and double solid lines for maximum restriction.

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2. Transverse Markings

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Placed across the road, these markings include stop lines, give-way lines, and pedestrian crossings. They enforce vehicle halts and right-of-way rules at junctions.

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3. Hazard Markings

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These are used to highlight road hazards and guide vehicles safely around them. They include chevrons, ladder hatchings, and diagonal lines used before merges, diverges, or curves.

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4. Block Markings

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Used for specific instructions like speed breakers, pedestrian crossings, and caution zones. These often appear as boxed patterns or zebra stripes.

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5. Arrow Markings

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These guide vehicles on direction of movement—straight, left, right, or U-turn—and are commonly seen near intersections or roundabouts.

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6. Directional Markings

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These are word-based messages like “SLOW,” “STOP,” or directional guidance that reinforce road sign messages.

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7. Facility Markings

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Special-purpose markings like bus lanes, parking bays, truck lay-bys, cycle lanes, and spaces for the disabled fall under this category.

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Road Marking Materials as per IRC Code 35

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The code allows a variety of materials based on the application, road conditions, and durability needs.

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• Thermoplastic Paints: The most widely used material, applied hot. Known for durability and retro-reflectivity.

• Waterborne and Solvent-Based Paints: Ideal for temporary markings or low-volume roads. Waterborne paints are safer and environmentally friendly.

• Cold Applied Plastics: More durable, better color retention, and ideal for raised or textured markings.

• Preformed Adhesive Tapes: Used where quick installation is needed without drying time. Suitable for high-traffic zones.

• Glass Beads: Embedded into markings to enhance night-time visibility through retro-reflection.

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Each of these materials must comply with MORTH's technical guidelines, ensuring long-lasting performance.

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Color Standards and Their Applications

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To ensure clarity and visibility, IRC Code 35 mandates color usage based on road function:

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• White is used for lane lines and centerlines, offering high contrast on blacktop surfaces.

• Yellow signifies restrictions such as no-overtaking zones or parking limitations.

• Blue is used for special lanes like dedicated bus corridors or BRTS lanes.

• Green is reserved for non-motorized lanes, especially for bicycles.

• Red or Purple is used to alert drivers at dangerous spots, like high-conflict intersections.

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Color selection must also consider the road surface—for example, yellow is preferred on concrete surfaces.

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Application Guidelines Based on Road Types

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Undivided Roads

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For single or two-lane roads, centerlines may be broken or solid depending on visibility and overtaking permissions. No markings are usually suggested for roads less than 5.5 meters wide unless necessary.

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Divided Carriageways

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These have edge lines, lane lines, and median-side lines. Markings are often wider in urban or high-speed areas, and solid lines are used where overtaking is unsafe.

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Expressways and High-Speed Roads

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Here, 150 mm wide markings are preferred for better visibility, with retro-reflective elements and enhanced spacing for higher speeds.

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Ramps, Slip Roads, and One-Way Streets

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Use smaller segments with tighter spacing and appropriate edge line setbacks to discourage unsafe parallel movements.

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Road Studs and Their Placement

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IRC Code 35 defines the use of retro-reflective road studs to supplement markings. They enhance visibility during low-light conditions and provide tactile feedback.

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Key rules include:

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• White studs for lane lines.
• Red for left-hand edges.
• Yellow for right-hand (median) edges.
• Green for diverging zones or access lanes like bus bays.

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Road studs must be installed at specified intervals and with proper setback from kerbs to avoid mud accumulation.

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Visibility, Maintenance, and Testing

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The code requires that all markings meet performance benchmarks for:

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• Durability and Wear Resistance
• Day and Night Visibility
• Skid Resistance
• Retro-reflectivity through embedded glass beads

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Markings are to be tested periodically for luminance, alignment, and surface adhesion. Any defects must be categorized and maintained as per defined protocols.

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Final Thoughts

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The IRC Code 35:2015 plays a foundational role in shaping how Indian roads are marked, read, and understood. By creating consistency in design and application, it helps engineers, contractors, and authorities build safer and more efficient transportation systems. Whether planning a new expressway or upgrading urban intersections, adherence to this code ensures clarity, safety, and compliance.

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Understanding this code is essential for all road engineers, planners, and safety auditors working on India's infrastructure.

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