IRC Code:SP:126-2019 - Guidelines for Low Volume Rural Roads Using Jute Geotextiles

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Rural road development plays a critical role in economic growth and social connectivity. The IRC Code:SP:126-2019 provides comprehensive guidelines on designing and constructing low-volume rural roads using Jute Geotextiles (JGT). This sustainable and cost-effective solution enhances pavement strength, reduces maintenance costs, and promotes eco-friendly infrastructure.

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What is Jute Geotextile (JGT)?

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JGT is a natural, biodegradable fabric derived from jute fibers. It improves soil stability and road durability by performing four key functions:

• Separation: Prevents intermixing of soil layers.
• Filtration: Allows water drainage while retaining soil particles.
• Drainage: Enhances sub-surface water movement.
• Reinforcement: Strengthens the subgrade and improves load-bearing capacity.

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Benefits of Using JGT in Rural Roads

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1. Cost-Effective: Reduces the need for expensive road construction materials.
2. Eco-Friendly: Made from natural fibers, making it biodegradable and sustainable.
3. Enhanced Durability: Improves soil strength, reducing road deformation and maintenance.
4. Increased Load-Bearing Capacity: Prevents subgrade failure by reinforcing weak soils.
5. Reduction in Pavement Thickness: Allows thinner pavement layers without compromising strength.

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Pavement Design and Construction Process

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‍Subgrade Preparation

• Conduct soil testing to determine California Bearing Ratio (CBR).
• Compact the soil to achieve the required density.
• Ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.

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Placement of JGT

• Lay JGT over the prepared subgrade with a 50mm sand cushion.
• Extend JGT across the full road width for uniform load distribution.
• Overlap adjacent sheets by at least 300mm to prevent gaps.

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Base and Surfacing Layers

• Use granular materials like Water Bound Macadam (WBM) or Wet Mix Macadam (WMM) as base layers.
• Apply bituminous surfacing such as a premix carpet with a seal coat for durability.
• Ensure proper compaction and curing to achieve desired pavement strength.

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Quality Control Tests for JGT

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To maintain the effectiveness of JGT, quality control tests are essential. The IRC Code:SP:126-2019 recommends evaluating:

• Physical Properties: Mass per unit area, thickness, porometry.
• Mechanical Properties: Tensile strength, puncture resistance, elongation at break.
• Hydraulic Properties: Permittivity, transmissivity, clogging potential.

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Conclusion

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The adoption of Jute Geotextiles in rural road construction, as per IRC:SP:126-2019, presents a sustainable, cost-efficient, and high-performing alternative to traditional methods. With proper implementation, it ensures long-lasting rural road infrastructure with minimal environmental impact.

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