IRC Code 35: Comprehensive Guidelines for Road Markings and Traffic Control

‍

In the evolving landscape of road infrastructure and urban traffic management, IRC Code 35:2015 stands as a cornerstone for standardizing road markings across India. Issued by the Indian Roads Congress (IRC), this revised code is pivotal for engineers, planners, and policymakers aiming to enhance road safety, ensure lane discipline, and facilitate the orderly movement of vehicles and pedestrians.

‍

Whether you're a road engineer or simply interested in how India's road systems are designed, this guide dives deep into IRC:35’s detailed framework.

‍

What is IRC Code 35?

‍

IRC Code 35, titled "Code of Practice for Road Markings", provides uniform specifications for the design, application, and performance monitoring of pavement markings on Indian roads. Initially released in 1970 and revised multiple times since, the most recent update in 2015 aligns with modern traffic demands and incorporates the latest in marking materials and techniques.

‍

Purpose and Scope of IRC Code 35

‍

Why Road Markings Matter:

‍

• Guide traffic flow and define vehicle paths

• Enhance safety by creating visual boundaries

• Control overtaking, speed, and lane usage

• Designate pedestrian and cyclist zones

‍

Scope:

‍

The code applies to all types of roads—urban and rural—and recommends practices for:

‍

• Selection of materials

• Application procedures

• Dimensions and colors

• Performance assessments

• Installation inspections

‍

Road Marking Materials

‍

1. Thermoplastic Markings

‍

• Most commonly used

• Applied in molten form; quick-drying and highly durable

• Lifespan: 2–3 years depending on traffic

‍

2. Solventborne & Waterborne Paints

‍

• Ideal for temporary or short-term markings

• Waterborne paints are eco-friendly and dry faster

‍

3. Cold Applied Plastics

‍

• Used for audible edge lines and colored markings

• Offer better color retention and surface bonding

‍

4. Preformed Adhesive Tapes

‍

• Easy to apply, no curing time required

• Useful in high-traffic areas and for temporary applications

‍

Color Patterns in Road Markings

‍

Color coding ensures clear communication to road users:

‍

• White: General guidance (lane lines, center lines)

• Yellow: No-overtaking zones, parking restrictions

• Blue: Bus lanes and special designations

• Green: Bicycle and non-motorized transport zones

• Red/Purple: High-risk or hazardous zones

‍

Categories of Pavement Markings

‍

1. Longitudinal Markings (LM)

‍

• Guide traffic flow (e.g., lane dividers, centerlines)

• Double lines signify no overtaking zones

‍

2. Transverse Markings (TM)

‍

• Includes Stop and Give Way lines

• Placed perpendicular to traffic flow

‍

3. Hazard Markings (HM)

‍

• Chevron, diagonal, and hatch markings to alert drivers
• ‍

4. Block Markings (BM)

‍

• Zebra crossings, speed breaker indicators

‍

5. Arrow Markings (AM)

‍

• Mandatory directional guidance

‍

6. Directional Markings (DM)

‍

• Word messages like “SLOW”, “STOP”, “BUS ONLY”

‍

7. Facility Markings (FM)

‍

• Parking bays, bus stops, cycle tracks, and disabled zones

‍

Application Areas

‍

IRC:35 outlines specific application areas:

‍

• Mid-block road links

• Intersections (signalized and non-signalized)

• Merging/diverging lanes

• Toll plazas, bus stops, and truck lay-bys

• Pedestrian crossings and school zones

• Speed-calming zones with speed breakers and chevron markings

‍

Road Studs: Enhancing Night Visibility

‍

Road studs are reflective devices installed to:

‍

• Enhance nighttime visibility

• Indicate lane boundaries

• Serve as rumble strips

‍

Types:

• White: Center lines/lane lines

• Red: Left shoulder edge

• Yellow: Right edge (divided roads)

• Green: Entry/exit points

‍

Proper spacing and placement are critical to performance.

‍

Visibility Standards and Retroreflectivity

‍

Markings must be visible from a minimum of two seconds of travel time based on vehicle speed. Retroreflectivity is achieved using glass beads embedded in the marking material. Key factors affecting visibility include:

‍

• Line thickness
• Quality of materials
• Road condition
• Presence of external lighting

‍

Performance Assessment and Monitoring

‍

Performance criteria include:

‍

• Wear durability
• Day and night visibility
• Skid resistance
• Regular inspections and maintenance based on road category

‍

Warranty and Testing

‍

The code mandates:

‍

• Warranty period for durability
• Testing for luminance, adhesion, and reflectivity
• Defect categorization and repair timelines

‍

Conclusion

‍

IRC Code 35 ensures road markings in India meet international standards while catering to unique national traffic conditions. By establishing consistent, visible, and durable marking systems, the code plays a crucial role in road safety, traffic efficiency, and infrastructure quality.

‍

For engineers, urban planners, and authorities, adhering to IRC:35 is not just compliance—it’s a commitment to building smarter, safer roads.

‍

RoadVision AI is transforming infrastructure development and maintenance by harnessing artificial intelligence and computer vision AI to revolutionize road safety and management. By leveraging advanced computer vision artificial intelligence and digital twin technology, the platform enables the early detection of potholes, cracks, and other road surface issues, ensuring timely repairs and better road conditions. With a mission to build smarter, safer, and more sustainable roads, RoadVision AI tackles challenges like traffic congestion and ensures full compliance with IRC Codes. By empowering engineers and stakeholders with data-driven insights, the platform reduces costs, minimizes risks, and enhances the overall transportation experience.

‍