Key Management Issues for Low Volume Rural Roads in Developing Countries

The management of Low Volume Rural Roads (LVRRs) in developing countries presents a range of challenges to road designers and managers. In a number of countries, a substantial proportion of the rural road network is generally developed only to an earth or a gravel standard. Individual routes are often in poor condition and sometimes severed during the rains; causing high transport costs and unreliable access. In particular, the challenges are due to factors including high rainfall, in some cases flooding/seasonal high water table, road material quality, haulage and traffic issues, such as variable loading, and the inability to provide timely maintenance through financial, operational and other constraints. At the same time, there are substantial demands for improved access and mobility for the rural communities, to support the achievement of the National Development Goals, improve socio-economic conditions and to reduce poverty.