Highway Construction Methodology – Step-by-Step Process (MoRTH 5th Revision)
By: Kishor Kumar | Category: Highway Methodology | Updated: November 2025
Introduction
The construction of a highway pavement involves several layers placed one over another to achieve desired strength, durability, and serviceability. As per MoRTH 5th Revision, each layer has specific material, compaction, and testing requirements to ensure quality and long-term performance.
This section covers the complete step-by-step methodology for all pavement layers — starting from Subgrade to Bituminous Concrete (BC).
Layer-wise Construction Methodology
Click on each layer to read its full methodology and testing process 👇
- Cearing & Grubbing Methodollogy
- Embankment Construction Mehodology
- Subgrade Construction Methodology (MoRTH Section 300)
- Granular Sub-Base (GSB) Construction Procedure (MoRTH Section 400)
- Wet Mix Macadam (WMM) Laying Process (MoRTH Section 406)
- Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM) Construction Steps (MoRTH Section 507)
- Bituminous Concrete (BC) Laying Methodology (MoRTH Section 509)
- Prime Coat Application (MoRTH Section 502)
- Tack Coat Application (MoRTH Section 502)
- Use of Waste Plastic in Road Construction Methodology
Purpose of Following Standard Methodology
- Ensures uniform compaction and strength across layers.
- Improves pavement performance and durability.
- Reduces maintenance and settlement issues.
- Facilitates quality control as per MoRTH standards.
References
- MoRTH Specification for Road and Bridge Works, 5th Revision, 2013
- IRC 37 – Guidelines for Design of Flexible Pavements
- IS 2720 (Part 8, Part 28) – Compaction and Field Density Tests
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What are the main layers of highway pavement?
The main layers are Subgrade, Granular Sub-Base (GSB), Wet Mix Macadam (WMM), Dense Bituminous Macadam (DBM), and Bituminous Concrete (BC).
2. Which MoRTH sections cover the pavement construction?
Sections 300 to 509 of MoRTH Specification cover pavement layers, including Subgrade, GSB, WMM, DBM, and BC.
3. What is the compaction requirement for Subgrade?
Subgrade should be compacted to at least 97% of the maximum dry density (MDD) obtained from the laboratory Modified Proctor Test as per IS 2720 (Part 8).
4. Why is proper methodology important in road construction?
Following a standard methodology ensures consistent quality, adequate compaction, and compliance with MoRTH and IRC standards.
5. How to link testing and methodology for SEO?
Interlink each layer’s methodology with its related lab and field tests — for example, WMM Methodology ↔ FDT, DBM ↔ Mix Design, etc. This strengthens topical authority.