Clearing & Grubbing (C&G) and Dismantling Works in Highway Construction – Complete Site Engineer Guide (MoRTH Clause 201)

5. Relevant MoRTH Provisions (Clause 201)

MoRTH Specifications for Road and Bridge Works – Section 200, Clause 201 (Clearing and Grubbing) specify the requirements for site preparation before commencement of earthwork and pavement construction.

The Contractor shall clear, grub, remove, and dispose of all vegetation, organic matter, unsuitable materials, and obstructions within the approved construction limits in accordance with the Contract and the directions of the Engineer.

Clause 201 Covers

• Clearing of vegetation, bushes, shrubs, grass, and hedges.
• Grubbing and removal of tree stumps, roots, and buried organic matter.
• Removal of unsuitable surface materials.
• Protection of existing utilities, adjacent properties, and environmental features.
• Disposal of cleared and grubbed materials at approved locations.
• Measurement and payment of Clearing & Grubbing works.
• Safety, environmental protection, and restoration requirements.

6. Materials and Obstructions to be Removed

The Site Engineer shall ensure that all unsuitable materials and obstructions within the approved Right of Way (ROW) or construction limits are removed completely before earthwork operations begin.

7. Removal of Ant Hills (Termite Mounds)

Ant hills or termite mounds located within the construction limits shall be removed wherever they are likely to affect the stability of embankments, interfere with drainage, or create weak pockets beneath pavement layers.

The excavation shall extend until all loose and contaminated material has been removed. The excavated area shall then be backfilled with approved material in layers and compacted to the specified density in accordance with MoRTH requirements.

Site Inspection Checklist

• All vegetation removed within the approved construction limits.
• Tree stumps and roots completely uprooted.
• Organic soil and decayed matter removed.
• Old pavements and unwanted structures dismantled as per drawings.
• Ant hills removed and excavated areas properly backfilled.
• Generated waste disposed of at approved dumping locations.
• Adjacent utilities and existing properties protected during operations.
• Site inspected and approved before commencement of earthwork.

8. Topsoil Stripping

8.1 Purpose of Topsoil Stripping

Topsoil is the uppermost layer of natural ground containing organic matter, humus, roots, grass, and other biodegradable materials. Since these materials are unsuitable for structural fill, embankment, or pavement construction, the topsoil shall be stripped before commencement of earthwork wherever specified in the Contract or directed by the Engineer.

8.2 Typical Thickness of Topsoil

The thickness of topsoil varies from site to site. Unless otherwise specified, topsoil is generally stripped to a depth of 150 mm to 300 mm, or as directed by the Engineer based on actual field conditions.

8.3 Reuse of Stripped Topsoil

Suitable stripped topsoil may be stockpiled and reused for:

• Landscaping and environmental restoration.
• Slope protection works.
• Median plantation.
• Turfing and grassing.
• Rehabilitation of disturbed areas.

9. Measurement of Trees, Stumps & Roots

9.1 Classification of Trees

For measurement and payment purposes, trees are generally classified based on girth measured at approximately 1.0 m above the ground level, unless otherwise specified in the Contract.

9.2 Measurement of Stumps and Roots

Tree stumps and roots shall generally be classified according to their diameter or girth, consistent with the applicable project specifications and payment schedule.

• 300 mm – 600 mm
• Above 600 mm – 900 mm
• Above 900 mm – 1800 mm
• Above 1800 mm

10. Protection of Existing Utilities and Assets

Before commencement of Clearing & Grubbing, all existing utilities and structures that are to remain shall be identified, protected, and safeguarded throughout the construction period.

• Electrical poles and overhead transmission lines.
• Water supply pipelines.
• Sewer and storm water drains.
• Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) networks.
• Gas pipelines.
• Buildings and compound walls.
• Traffic signs and highway furniture.
• Street lighting systems.
• Public amenities and existing drainage structures.

11. Execution Procedure for Clearing & Grubbing

Step 1 – Survey and Site Marking

• Verify approved alignment and chainages.
• Establish construction limits and Right of Way (ROW).
• Locate existing utilities and services.
• Identify trees and structures marked for removal.
• Mark protected assets to prevent accidental damage.

Step 2 – Utility Identification and Protection

• Identify overhead electrical lines.
• Locate underground water pipelines.
• Identify sewer and storm water drains.
• Locate Optical Fibre Cable (OFC).
• Verify gas pipelines and communication networks.
• Coordinate with concerned utility agencies before commencing work.

Step 3 – Tree Cutting Operations

• Obtain statutory permissions from competent authorities.
• Provide barricading and traffic management.
• Remove branches in a controlled manner.
• Cut tree trunks safely in stages.
• Segregate reusable timber where applicable.
• Completely uproot stumps and major roots.
• Transport cleared material to approved locations.

Step 4 – Grubbing Operations

• Remove tree stumps and root systems.
• Excavate buried vegetation and organic matter.
• Remove unsuitable soil where directed.
• Backfill excavated pits with approved material.
• Compact backfilled material to the specified density.
• Obtain Engineer's approval before commencing earthwork.

12. Equipment Used for Clearing & Grubbing

13. Quality Control Requirements

The following quality control measures shall be implemented during Clearing & Grubbing operations to ensure compliance with MoRTH Specifications, environmental regulations, and approved project requirements.

• Complete removal of trees, shrubs, bushes, grass, and unwanted vegetation.
• Complete uprooting of tree stumps, roots, and buried organic matter.
• Removal of unsuitable soil and decayed materials within the construction limits.
• Topsoil stripped to the specified depth wherever required.
• Excavated pits backfilled with approved material and compacted.
• Generated debris disposed of only at approved dumping locations.
• Environmental protection measures implemented during disposal.
• Existing utilities and adjacent structures adequately protected.
• Survey verification completed before commencement of earthwork.
• Inspection records, approvals, and quality documentation maintained.

14. Common Defects, Causes & Corrective Measures

SECTION 2 – Dismantling of Existing Structures (MoRTH Clause 202)

15. Introduction

Existing structures that interfere with the proposed highway alignment shall be dismantled in a safe, systematic, and controlled manner before commencement of new construction works. Dismantling operations shall be carried out in accordance with MoRTH Section 200 – Clause 202, approved drawings, project specifications, and the directions of the Engineer.

The Contractor shall ensure that dismantling operations do not endanger adjacent structures, utilities, public traffic, or personnel. Reusable materials shall be handled, stacked, and disposed of strictly as directed by the Engineer.

16. Structures Covered Under Dismantling Works

• Culverts and minor bridges.
• Bridge components and foundations.
• Bituminous pavements.
• Cement concrete pavements.
• Kerbs, gutters, and medians.
• Drainage structures.
• Retaining walls and boundary walls.
• Traffic signs and highway furniture.
• Utility ducts and service crossings.
• Temporary structures and miscellaneous obstructions.

17. Objectives of Dismantling

• Remove existing obstructions safely.
• Prepare the site for new construction.
• Recover reusable materials wherever specified.
• Protect adjacent structures and underground utilities.
• Maintain uninterrupted and safe traffic movement.
• Prevent future settlement caused by buried foundations.
• Ensure environmental compliance during disposal.

18. Dismantling of Culverts and Bridges

• Carry out structural assessment before demolition.
• Remove the superstructure in a controlled sequence.
• Demolish foundations to the level specified in the drawings.
• Protect portions intended to remain in service.
• Preserve reinforcement where future structural connections are required.
• Dispose of demolition debris at approved locations.

19. Dismantling of Existing Pavements

• Cement Concrete Pavement (PQC/DLC).
• Bituminous pavement layers.
• Granular pavement layers where specified.
• Kerbs and channels.
• Concrete medians and islands.
• Road shoulders.

Concrete pavements shall be broken into manageable pieces using approved equipment. Salvageable materials shall be separated where specified in the Contract.

20. Removal of Road Furniture and Utilities

• Crash barriers and guard rails.
• Traffic signs and sign supports.
• Road studs and delineators.
• Street lighting poles.
• Fencing and boundary walls.
• Utility ducts and service lines.
• Manholes and inspection chambers.
• Catch basins and drainage inlets.

21. Safety Requirements During Dismantling

Appropriate safety measures shall be implemented throughout dismantling operations to safeguard workers, road users, adjacent properties, and existing utilities.

• Provide barricading around the work zone.
• Implement approved traffic diversion and traffic management plans.
• Install warning signs, cones, blinkers, and reflectors.
• Provide adequate illumination for night operations.
• Prevent unauthorized entry into demolition areas.
• Control dust using water sprinkling.
• Ensure safe lifting and demolition practices.
• Maintain emergency response arrangements at site.

Mandatory Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Safety Helmet.
• Reflective Safety Jacket.
• Safety Shoes.
• Protective Gloves.
• Safety Goggles or Face Shield.
• Ear Protection (where required).
• Dust Mask or Respirator (during demolition operations).

22. Environmental Protection Measures

Clearing & Grubbing and Dismantling activities shall be carried out in an environmentally responsible manner. The Contractor shall comply with the Environmental Management Plan (EMP), applicable statutory regulations, and the directions of the Engineer throughout the execution of the works.

• Provide regular water sprinkling to suppress dust generation.
• Segregate reusable and non-reusable demolition waste.
• Control excessive noise and vibration during demolition activities.
• Dispose of waste only at approved disposal locations.
• Prevent contamination of nearby water bodies and drainage channels.
• Protect existing trees, vegetation, and environmentally sensitive areas designated for preservation.
• Avoid burning of vegetation, waste, or construction debris unless specifically permitted by the competent authority.
• Maintain proper housekeeping throughout the work zone.

23. Backfilling After Dismantling

Upon completion of dismantling operations, all excavated areas shall be restored using approved fill material and compacted in accordance with MoRTH Specifications to prevent future settlement and pavement distress.

Execution Procedure

1. Remove all loose debris, organic matter, and unsuitable materials.
2. Inspect the excavated area and obtain Engineer's approval.
3. Place approved fill material in specified layer thickness.
4. Adjust moisture content to Optimum Moisture Content (OMC).
5. Compact each layer to the specified density.
6. Repeat the process until the required formation level is achieved.
7. Verify finished level, cross slope, and compaction before proceeding with subsequent works.

Importance of Proper Backfilling

• Prevents differential settlement.
• Eliminates future surface depressions.
• Prevents water accumulation.
• Improves foundation stability.
• Minimizes pavement cracking.
• Ensures long-term structural performance.

24. Disposal of Dismantled Materials

Materials obtained during dismantling shall be sorted, handled, and disposed of in accordance with the Contract provisions and the directions of the Engineer.

Reusable Materials

• Structural steel sections.
• Stone masonry blocks.
• Pipes and utility components.
• Suitable aggregates.
• Approved concrete rubble for recycling.
• Traffic signs and highway furniture where specified.

Non-Reusable Materials

• Damaged reinforced concrete.
• Contaminated materials.
• Organic waste.
• Unsuitable demolition debris.
• Hazardous waste (to be disposed of as per statutory requirements).

25. Quality Control Checklist

26. Frequently Asked Interview Questions