Assessment of Flexible Pavement Failures and Maintenance Strategies in the Uttara Region, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

The rapid urban development in Uttara, Dhaka, has significantly strained its road infrastructure, with 15% of the paved roads suffering from various failures. This study investigates the types of flexible pavement failures in the Uttara region and explores the underlying causes. Factors such as low-quality materials, heavy truck loads, intense rainfall, and poor drainage systems contribute to the degradation of road surfaces. Pavement failures observed include cracking, potholes, rutting, and depressions, causing disruptions in traffic flow and increased vehicle maintenance costs. A comprehensive field survey was conducted across two major routes, and the pavement condition was evaluated using visual inspections and quantitative measurements. The results show that Route 1 requires overlay maintenance, while Route 2 requires routine maintenance. The study provides targeted recommendations for improving road durability, such as enhanced drainage systems, regular maintenance schedules, and better traffic load management. These findings are intended to assist municipal authorities in developing more effective maintenance strategies for flexible pavements in urban areas with tropical climates.