Innovation and Sustainability in Civil Engineering: Shaping Tomorrow’s Infrastructure Volume 2

Inhaltsverzeichnis

1. Frontmatter

2. GIS-Based Optimal Transportation Route Planning Using AHP and Dijkstra’s Algorithm

   Saurabh Raj, Vijay Kumar Bansal, Kartick Kumar

   Abstract

   Efficient transportation networks are essential for ensuring connectivity and accessibility. With increasing population and urbanization, the demand for well-planned transportation routes continues to rise. In mountainous regions, determining the optimal alignment for transportation routes is particularly challenging due to complex terrain and multiple influencing factors. This paper aims to identify the critical factors influencing route selection for transportation infrastructure in such regions. A thorough review of existing literature was conducted to identify and compile a comprehensive list of factors that influence route planning. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was applied to determine their comparative significance, with slope identified as the most critical factor, followed by elevation, land cover, and aspect. A GIS-based methodology was developed to integrate these factors, utilizing Dijkstra’s algorithm to determine the most efficient route. The proposed approach was validated through a case study, demonstrating its effectiveness in selecting an optimal transportation corridor with minimal environmental impact and improved accessibility.

3. Factors Affecting Travel Behavior and Mode Choice—“Case Study of Patna: The Capital City of Bihar”

   Rajesh Ranjan, Sanjeev Sinha

   Abstract

   This study investigates the factors influencing travel behavior and mode choice in Patna, the capital city of Bihar, India. The rapid urbanization and increased vehicular ownership have resulted in significant traffic congestion and transportation challenges, necessitating an in-depth analysis of travel mode preferences. A structured questionnaire survey of 450 respondents was conducted to capture socio-demographic characteristics, travel patterns, and perceptions regarding public and private transportation. Factor analysis was employed to identify the key determinants influencing mode choice, categorized into Personal Characteristics (PC) and Travel-Based Factors (TB). The findings reveal that public transport modes, primarily buses and trains, are preferred by 44% of the respondents due to affordability and accessibility, while private modes, including motorcycles and cars, account for 37.56%. Non-motorized travel methods like walking and cycling constitute 9.56%. Key influencing factors identified include income level, vehicle ownership, age, gender, employment status, and travel time reliability. The analysis highlights that enhancing public transport reliability, reducing costs, and promoting comfort can increase public transport usage. Furthermore, promoting sustainable travel through improved pedestrian pathways and cycling lanes can reduce private vehicle dependence. The study’s outcomes provide valuable insights for policymakers to develop more sustainable and user-centric urban transportation systems in Patna.

4. Comparative Analysis of Time-Based and Speed-Based Congestion Metrics on Nagpur’s Road Network

   Manasi Nagarale, N. P. Anoona, Y. B. Katpatal

   Abstract

   Existing congestion metrics often fail to capture disparities across road types in rapidly urbanizing cities like Nagpur, necessitating an evaluation of time-based and speed-based measures for effective traffic management. This study investigates the relationship between time-based and speed-based congestion metrics on Nagpur’s road network, utilizing real-time traffic data collected via the TomTom Routing API (Application Programming Interface). The methodology involves data collection for various road segments, including flyovers, main roads, and service roads, during peak hours. Mathematical validation confirmed a strong correlation between the two metrics, with disparities observed across different road types. Results indicate that service roads exhibit higher disparities due to frequent interruptions, while flyovers demonstrate more consistent traffic flow. This research underscores the importance of selecting appropriate congestion metrics for targeted urban traffic management. These findings can inform the development of targeted interventions to alleviate congestion on service roads and optimize traffic management strategies.

5. Development of Real-World Driving Cycles Using Micro-Trip Segmentation for Passenger Cars

   Sandeep Kumar, Satyajit Mondal, Ankit Gupta

   Abstract

   Creating a driving cycle that replicates traffic behavior is crucial for developing an emission and energy consumption model. This study introduces a methodological framework for constructing a driving cycle for passenger cars in diverse traffic environments. Data collection involved installing a GPS-based video V-Box de-vice in passenger cars operating under real-world traffic conditions. The data analysis involves analyzing base data and evaluating micro-trips. A speed-acceleration frequency matrix is then generated to estimate five key driving parameters: percent time in acceleration (PTA), percent time in deceleration (PTD), percent time in idle (PTI), percent time in cruise (PTC), and average speed. Subsequently, the driving data is transformed into multiple micro-trips based on the driving parameters. A random selection technique was used for these transformed micro-trips to match them with the base data. These selected micro-trips are then sequenced to form a representation of a driving cycle for passenger cars operating under current traffic conditions. Performance validation of the developed driving cycle is conducted through a comparative analysis with standard driving cycles.

6. A Data-Driven Approach for Predicting Vehicle Speed on Reverse Horizontal Curves

   Nikhil Kumar Suman, Satyajit Mondal

   Abstract

   Understanding the influence of reverse horizontal curves (RHCs) on traffic flow, road safety, and driver performance in transport systems is essential to understanding their geometry. The present study aims to gain a deeper understanding of vehicle performance on RHCs through an exploratory analysis of speed characteristics and distributions in relation to geometric factors. The present study proposes car speed models while considering various geometric characteristics of RHCs. The regression analysis reports the mathematical relationships between the vehicle speed and critical geometric elements, such as curve length, acceleration, transition length, and curve radius. The study spanned a 110 km stretch of National Highway 31 (NH31) from Patna to Begusarai, where RHCs were identified for the study and data collected. Geometric and road inventory data were obtained from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The study utilized a GPS-based VBOX data recorder, mounted in the test cars, to collect position, direction, distance, speed, and acceleration data every 0.1 s, thereby capturing vehicle state information. The results of this study indicate the continued success of speed prediction models in estimating vehicle speed across various road geometries and traffic conditions. The composition of the speed models will enable improved roadway design standards, regulations, and guidance for setting speed limits, as well as better speed limits based on traffic flow dynamics on RHCs.

7. Proactive Road Safety Assessment for Rural Highways in Developing Countries via Surrogate Conflict Analysis

   Loknath Kumar, Rajesh Ranjan, Sanjeev Sinha

   Abstract

   Improving road safety remains a critical challenge in developing countries, where rural highways often experience a disproportionately high rate of crashes. Traditional crash-based methods for identifying hazardous locations are limited due to the underreporting and unreliability of historical crash data. This study introduces a proactive approach to highway safety assessment through the use of surrogate safety measures, focusing on traffic conflicts as indicators of potential danger. A methodological framework was developed to detect and analyze conflicts using data gathered from selected intersections via floating vehicle surveys and field observations. The study employs a count data modeling approach specifically, Poisson regression with both fixed and random parameters to evaluate how various road, traffic, and environmental factors influence the occurrence of traffic conflicts. Post-Encroachment Time (PET) and Time-to-Collision (TTC) were used as key surrogate indicators to classify conflict severity. Conflict frequency was analyzed across road segments, and high-risk locations were prioritized based on their predicted safety levels. Results demonstrate that surrogate safety indicators can effectively identify conflict-prone areas, offering a cost-efficient and reliable alternative to crash data in resource-limited contexts. The model’s partial effect estimates provide valuable insights into the impact of traffic flow, geometric features, and pedestrian activity on conflict likelihood. This conflict-based method offers practical value for road agencies in developing countries, enabling them to prioritize safety interventions more efficiently and proactively, even in the absence of comprehensive crash records.

8. Agile-Driven Digital Twin Supply Chain Management for Enhanced Construction Project Outcomes

   Siddhartha Erelli

   Abstract

   The construction industry’s dynamic nature necessitates adaptive strategies for efficient project management. Agile project management, emphasizing flexibility, collaboration, and iterative improvements, offers transformative potential when paired with advanced digital technologies. This paper proposes a digital twin-enabled supply chain management framework underpinned by Agile principles to enhance visibility and traceability in construction projects. By integrating technologies such as digital twins, Building Information Modeling (BIM), GPS, and smart sensors, the framework facilitates iterative planning, continuous feedback, and real-time decision-making. A case study of a water pump house project demonstrates the framework’s capability to optimize material procurement, logistics, and on-site resource distribution. Agile’s focus on stakeholder collaboration and rapid adaptation ensures seamless integration of supply chain processes, improving project efficiency and responsiveness to change. The proposed framework aligns with Agile methodologies to address challenges like data fragmentation and delayed material scheduling, providing a comprehensive approach to managing modern construction projects.

9. Castor Oil and Rice Husk Ash Modified Bio-Bitumen (CORMBB): An Alternative Sustainable Pavement Material

   Sanjeev Kumar, Sanjeev Kumar Suman

   Abstract

   Conventional bitumen is a byproduct of petroleum refinement commonly used in flexible pavement applications. Since bitumen depletes quickly, is a non-renewable material in nature, and is associated with environmental and cost concerns, researchers are looking for an alternative material that can be found in nature, can be renewed, has minimal impact on environmental and human health, and has cost-effectiveness. This study aims to investigate the use of castor oil (CO) and rice husk ash (RHA) modified bio-bitumen (CORMBB) as a partial replacement for conventional bitumen/base binder (BB). CORMBB was produced by incorporating CO (9%), RHA (6%), and BB (85%) and evaluated physical, chemical, structural, rheological, and bituminous concrete mix performance parameters. Physical test results indicated enhanced penetration (27.69%) and lowered softening point (18.18%) of CORMBB, suggesting improved flexibility and reduced thermal stiffness. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses confirmed successful chemical interaction among the CO, RHA, and BB. Also, they revealed the incorporation of silica from RHA, improving structural stiffness and moisture resistance. Rheological assessments via frequency sweep test and flow sweep test using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) revealed lower complex modulus and phase angle values for CORMBB and higher viscosity at low shear rates, indicating enhanced elasticity, temperature responsiveness, supporting better-rutting resistance, and maintaining compaction ease at higher shear rates. Performance testing of bituminous concrete mixes showed that although CORMBB reduced Marshall stability, indirect tensile strength (ITS), tensile strength ratio (TSR), and Cantabro loss, it improved durability parameters such as moisture resistance, raveling resistance, and aggregate loss resistance. These results suggest that CORMBB has potential as a sustainable alternative to conventional binders, offering both performance benefits and environmental advantages.

10. Real-Time Ambulance Booking and Management System for Urban Emergency Response

    Shreya Chakote, Vanshika Khandelwal, Anish Shaw, S. Tanish, S. B. Prapulla

    Abstract

    Rapid exigency response is pivotal in civic areas suffering from business traffic and unshaped transport systems. This paper presents a smart ambulance booking and dispatch platform erected using Firebase, Google Charts API, and Android, enabling real-time ambulance shadowing, sanitarium-motorist collaboration, and dynamic booking operation. The system includes separate interfaces for motorists and hospitals, live GPS integration, and case-side booking using geo-position. Testing the system on Google Charts with real-time equals over Bengaluru’s layout demonstrated functional booking, live ambulance shadowing, and smooth UI navigation—validating the system’s usability and eventuality for real-world deployment. The paper concludes by assessing deployment feasibility in Indian smart metropolises and the eventuality for integration with business signal prioritization and metro-corridor exigency lanes.

11. Comparative Study on Soil Subgrade Reinforcement with and Without Banana Fiber

    Dipankar Sarkar, Saswati Banik

    Abstract

    The subgrade layer is a crucial component in pavement design, influencing its overall performance and durability. This study evaluates the impact of banana fiber reinforcement (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2%) on the geotechnical properties of silty soil, focusing on its strength, permeability, and durability. Laboratory tests were conducted to assess specific gravity, Atterberg limits, maximum dry density (MDD), optimum moisture content (OMC), unconfined compressive strength (UCS), shear strength, permeability, durability, and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) for both untreated and reinforced soil. The results indicate that banana fiber significantly enhances CBR, UCS, and durability while moderately affecting permeability. IIT Pave was utilized to assess pavement performance based on calculated elastic modulus (Eₛ) and Poisson’s ratio (ν) values. Design involves computing the stress and strain by using IIT Pave software. The findings suggest that banana fiber reinforcement is a cost-effective and sustainable method for improving subgrade soil properties.

12. Development of a CatBoost-Based Predictive Model for Estimating the Compressive Strength of Waste Plastic-Doped Concrete

    Sameer Sen, Anish Kumar, Sanjeev Sinha

    Abstract

    This study presents a CatBoost regression model to predict the compressive strength of concrete doped with waste plastic. Input variables included % plastic waste (0–10%), % fly ash (0–10%), and curing days (3–90). The model achieved near-perfect training performance (R² = 1.0, RMSE = 0.0003 MPa) but showed reduced accuracy on the test set (R² = 0.762, RMSE = 4.03 MPa), indicating overfitting. Analysis revealed that increasing plastic waste reduces strength, especially beyond 4–6%, while adding 10% fly ash consistently improves strength, peaking at 41.72 MPa after 90 days. SHAP analysis confirmed % plastic waste and curing days as the dominant predictors. The model offers an effective and interpretable tool for designing sustainable concrete mixes that balance environmental and mechanical performance.

13. Field Distress Study for Performance Assessment of Roads Constructed Using Waste Plastic

    Hitesh Kumar, Ajit Kumar, Deepansh Yadav, Sudhir Varma, Sushma Peddamile

    Abstract

    Disposal of waste plastic is a major concern. Plastics are not readily biodegradable and so the dumps in landfills remain in environment for a considerable period of time. Using the waste in road construction can significantly reduce burden on environment. Guidelines to use waste plastics in hot bituminous mixes through dry process has been outlined in IRC SP-98 which has been adopted in low-volume road construction. However, in-field performance assessment are needed to establish benefits of waste plastic over conventional roads. In this study, distress surveys have been performed to compare conventional and waste plastic roads. The surveys were performed twice at an interval of one year on 21 different roads. This included 14 waste plastic roads and 7 conventional roads. To ensure that the conventional and waste plastic roads have been subjected to similar traffic and climatic conditions, the roads were selected from the same vicinity. Pavement condition rating value has been considered as a parameter for understanding condition of road, which was calculated according to the IRC 82-2015 guidelines. To compute chainage wise pavement condition, a JavaScript-based web application has been build. For structural evaluation, light weight deflectometer was conducted before and after rainy season. It was found that the waste plastic road performed better compared to conventional road. The pavement condition rating and impact stiffness modulus of waste plastic roads indicate that use of waste plastics in hot bituminous mixes may improve the life of pavement.

14. Traffic Accident Analysis and Black Spot Identification in Pune City

    Sangketa Sangma, Ankita Munde, Vaishnavi Pandhare, Pratik Bansode, Govind Mohan

    Abstract

    Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a critical issue in urban environments, posing serious threats to human life, property, and economic development. Pune, one of India’s fastest-growing metropolitan cities, has experienced a significant rise in road accidents due to increasing vehicular density, inadequate road infrastructure, and widespread non-compliance with traffic regulations. This study aims to analyze accident trends and identify black spots—high-risk locations with a high frequency of accidents—across the Pune region. The research utilizes a combination of secondary data from government agencies and traffic police records, along with primary data obtained through field surveys. Black spots are identified and evaluated based on key challenges faced by road users, including traffic congestion, lack of parking space, frequent accidents or near-miss incidents, potholes or poor road conditions, pedestrian safety concerns, difficulty in navigating narrow roads, and the presence of roadside vendors. Contributing factors are analyzed to understand the underlying causes of accidents at these locations. Based on the findings, the study proposes targeted countermeasures such as infrastructure upgrades, improved traffic regulation enforcement, pedestrian-friendly design, and strategic planning initiatives. The results aim to support urban planners, policymakers, and traffic authorities in developing data-driven solutions to enhance road safety and minimize accident occurrences in Pune.

15. Ontology-Driven Integration of Urban Planning Data for Enhanced Civil Engineering Applications

    Shruti Bagde

    Abstract

    Urban planning data are critical for civil engineers, architects, urban planners, and the general public. However, the scattered and heterogeneous nature of these datasets, encompassing both geographical and taxonomical knowledge, poses significant challenges for integration and meaningful analysis. This paper presents an ontology-based framework tailored for the integration of urban planning data, with a specific focus on civil engineering applications in the City of Prague. I examine the domain’s ontological structure and formalize the ontology using the OWL language, addressing semantic inconsistencies in core concepts such as “building,” “construction,” and “infrastructure.” By leveraging this framework, I enable advanced distributed queries over multiple datasets, improving data accessibility, consistency, and usability for urban development and civil engineering projects.

16. Pedestrian Gap Acceptance at Midblock Median Openings on Four-Lane Urban Arterials: A Comprehensive Assessment of Demographic, Vehicular, and Geometric Influences

    Mitali Garud, Arpita Saha

    Abstract

    This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of pedestrian gap acceptance behavior at uncontrolled midblock median openings on four-lane urban arterials in Nagpur, India. Field data were collected from two geometrically distinct locations, namely Site 1 and Site 2, to examine the influence of demographic, vehicular, and geometric variables on critical gap estimation. The critical gap was determined using Raff’s graphical method, with results indicating a substantial difference between the sites: 2.66 s at Site 1 and 5.64 s at Site 2. Statistical analyses revealed that age, gender, luggage carriage, group walking behavior, and pedestrian walking speed significantly affected gap acceptance. Pedestrians walking in groups or carrying luggage tended to accept longer gaps, whereas younger individuals and males were more likely to accept shorter gaps, demonstrating greater risk tolerance. Although vehicle type and speed showed observable trends, the differences were not statistically significant. The geometric characteristics of the site had a marked impact on pedestrian decision-making. Site 2’s wider median, shorter crossing distance, and broader footpaths promoted more conservative crossing behavior. The study recommends infrastructure enhancements such as wider medians, pedestrian refuge islands, and pedestrian-activated warning systems. The findings support the integration of behavioral insights into the design of pedestrian facilities to improve safety in complex urban traffic environments.

17. Evaluating the Suitability of Fine EAF Steel Slag as a Sustainable Fine Aggregate in Roller-Compacted Concrete Pavement Containing Fly Ash: A Case Study from the Wainganga River Basin

    Vaibhav Vilasrao Butle, D. Sitarami Reddy, V. Srinivasan, Saroj Kumar Sahoo

    Abstract

    Unregulated sand mining in ecologically sensitive river systems like the Wainganga Basin has raised urgent sustainability concerns in construction practices. This study investigates the partial replacement of natural river sand with fine Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steel slag in Roller-Compacted Concrete Pavement (RCCP) mixes incorporating 25% Class F fly ash as cement replacement. Five mixes were prepared by replacing fine aggregates with 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40% steel slag by weight. Compaction trials determined the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) and Maximum Dry Density (MDD), while mechanical properties were evaluated through compressive and flexural strength tests at 7 and 28 days. The results revealed a consistent increase in OMC and a slight reduction in MDD with higher slag content, attributed to the slag’s angularity and rough texture. Compressive and flexural strengths declined with increased slag levels. At 28 days, only the FS10 mix achieved a compressive strength of 29.88 MPa, exceeding the 27.6 MPa requirement for surface layers, while FS20 and beyond failed to meet the threshold. Accordingly, FS10 is recommended for surface layer use, while higher replacement levels may be suitable for base layers. This study demonstrates that fine EAF steel slag, when judiciously used, can reduce river sand dependency and enhance the circular utilization of industrial by-products in sustainable pavement construction.

18. A Study on Road Safety Audit and Black Spot Identification

    Niyaz Mohammad, Md. Tauqeer Imam, Haidar Ali, Vinay Prasad, Faiz Anwer, Anuj Kumar Sharma, Mohit Gupta

    Abstract

    Road safety remains a paramount concern for transportation agencies worldwide, as the increasing frequency of road accidents continues to pose significant threats to public health, economic development, and social well-being. This research explores two critical methodologies for improving road safety: Road Safety Audits (RSAs) and black spot identification (BSI). RSAs are structured, systematic evaluations conducted at various stages of road planning, design, construction, and operation, aimed at identifying and addressing potential safety risks before and during the road’s life cycle. The RSA process involves the identification of road safety deficiencies through a multi-disciplinary team of experts, who assess both current and future road conditions in the context of traffic flow, road geometry, environmental factors, and user behavior. This paper examines how RSAs, as a proactive measure, play a pivotal role in preventing accidents by mitigating hazards that could otherwise lead to traffic collisions. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the need for a holistic, data-driven approach to road safety that combines proactive safety audits with targeted interventions at black spots. It underscores the importance of continuous monitoring, risk assessment and stakeholder engagement in creating safer road networks. By integrating RSAs and BSI into routine road maintenance and upgrade processes, transportation agencies can substantially reduce road accidents, fatalities, and injuries, contributing to the broader goals of sustainable and safe mobility.

19. Unveiling the Dynamics of Thixotropic Behaviour in Rejuvenated Asphalt Binders

    Anish Kumar, Abhishek Savarnya, Sanjeev Sinha, Sameer Sen

    Abstract

    In the current study the effect of various recycling agents on the thixotropic behaviour of rejuvenated binders is explored. Thixotropy is indicative of the shear history of the asphalt binder, its effectiveness in characterizing the rejuvenated binders is investigated. The structural kinetic model is used to study thixotropy of rejuvenated binders using 8 mm dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) measurements. It is seen that the viscoelastic effects from the purview of thixotropy provides qualitative data, which can aid in selection of recycling agents for rejuvenation. As per the healing coefficients of the rejuvenated binders, the ranking of the recycling agent would be Prefalt, 650/900, Sylvaroad, V1500 and Nygen in descending order. In case of breaking coefficient, it would be Prefalt, 650/900, Sylvaroad, V1500 and Nygen. However, incorporation of these effects in the viscoelastic model needs more research for estimation of binder performance.

20. Evaluation of Overtaking Behavior on Two-Lane Rural Highway with Paved Shoulder

    Utpal Kant, Ranja Bandyopadhyaya

    Abstract

    The codal mandate for upgrading unpaved shoulder to paved shoulder of two-lane Indian highways calls focused investigation of overtaking behavior in such facilities. The available works focused on studying overtaking behavior in two-lane highways having unpaved shoulder in homogenous traffic condition. This study focuses on analyzing overtaking behavior in two-lane Indian highways with paved shoulder configuration, catering mixed traffic. The overtaking time and distance are studied for Cars, two-wheelers (TW), light commercial vehicles (LCV), Bus and Heavy vehicles (HV), when these vehicles are overtaking the test vehicles-Car in two-lane highway with 1.50 m paved shoulder on either side of carriageway. Since speed difference between overtaking and overtaken vehicle affects overtaking time, the study also attempts to develop relationship between speed difference and overtaking time for each class of vehicle. It was observed from the study that the overtaking time and distance for Cars and TW is the least with small standard deviation. However, for Bus, LCV and HV, the overtaking time and distance and variation in these observations are large. Comparing the results with overtaking time in two-lane highways without paved shoulder in Indian condition, it was observed that the addition of paved shoulder significantly reduced overtaking time for Cars. However, the overtaking time for LCV or HV was not affected significantly. Overtaking time for two-wheelers is not available in standard literature and thus could not be compared.