Specifications RVNL

1. SPECIFICATIONS FOR EARTHWORK IN FORMATION

1.1 This section deals with the Design of Railway Formation, Selection of
Materials for Construction, Execution of Earthwork in formation, Quality
Control of the Earth work, Maintenance of Records and Quality
Assurance. The earth work should be carried out as per the provisions
of “Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects-2003” issued by
RDSO/ Lucknow.

1.2 This Section covers the following activities:

(a) Survey for fixing the working alignment and establishment of

working bench marks.

(b) Earth Work in formation in banks and cuttings, laying of a

blanket layer with suitable materials and protective works like
side drains in parts of this length where found necessary etc.

1.3 The works to be executed can broadly be grouped as under:

(a) Setting out the alignment of proposed line and establishing working,
bench marks and alignment references, taking the details from
bench marks and alignment references established by the
Employer earlier. This work has to be done once before starting
the earth work in formation and once after the earth work in
formation has been completed, but before starting the works
connected with installation of Permanent Way.

(b) Preparation of working plans for longitudinal sections, cross

sections.

(c) Carrying out the work of Earth work in formation in banks and
cuttings with Contractor’s earth, cut spoils, if suitable, including
laying blanket layer where found necessary with Contractor’s
material. The earth work and blanket layer have to be
compacted with suitable machinery at OMC.

1.4 Survey and establishment of working Bench marks and alignment

references:

1.4.1 The Engineer when necessary will provide the contractor with the data
necessary for setting out of the centerline. All dimensions and levels
shown on the drawing or mentioned in the documents forming part of
or issued under the contract shall be verified by the contractor on the

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 1 of 41

Specifications RVNL
site; he shall immediately inform the Engineer of any apparent errors
or discrepancies noticed in such dimensions or levels. In consultation
with the Engineer, the noticed mistakes should be corrected. These
corrections should have the approval of the Engineer.

1.4.2 The contractor will be entirely responsible for accurate setting out of
the works and safe guarding all survey monuments, bench marks,
beacons, etc. The work of setting out shall be deemed to be a part of
the general works preparatory to the execution of work and no
separate payment shall be made for the same.

1.4.3 These design drawings like plans and ‘L’ section and sheets indicating
the typical cross sections proposed to be used for formation of earth
work for the proposed double line are tentative for giving guidance to
the tenderers and also for enabling them to calculate the rates to be
quoted. These details should be studied by the Contractor and
Engineer in the first instance after their detailed field inspection. In
case any changes are required to these details to suit the available site
condition, the same should be proposed by the contractor and got
approved from the Engineer. Both the Contractor and the Engineer
should keep a clear record of such approvals. This work should be
done before start of any work related to earth work in formation for that
particular section.

1.4.4 As stated above taking guidance from the design drawings showing
plan and ‘L’ section, typical cross section, blanket details etc., which
form part of the tender, and detailed field inspection, the contractor
shall, within 56 days of the issue of Letter of Acceptance prepare
working drawings. The working drawings that will be prepared by the
contractor, should clearly indicate the details of alignment, formation
levels, formation width at ground level, cross sections of catch water
drains & side drains, cross sections indicating levels of sub grade,
blanket etc., to facilitate smooth execution of work at site. Such
working drawings should be submitted to the Engineer for his approval.
Any suggestions and modifications by the Engineer and or the
Employer shall be duly incorporated by the Contractor in these
drawings. The work of execution of embankment shall be commenced
only after the approval of these working drawings including drawings
showing the cross sections, by the Engineer.

1.4.5 For the work of proposed line on the present contract, doing the work
of Design of formation, Design of sub grade & sub soil, Design of
thickness of blanket layer, Stability Analysis of side slopes of
embankment etc., are not contemplated. However, some of the
salient details on these points have been given in Annexure A to
Section B - SPECIFICATIONS FOR EARTHWORK IN FORMATION
mainly for

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 2 of 41

Specifications RVNL
(a) guidance while working ;
(b) adoption to clear any doubts that may arise in the minds of the
Contractor/Engineer/Employer during the progress of work.

The Engineer should take a decision on getting these works carried out
by the contractor, in case such doubts arise. Necessary help from the
available experts in the field, including RDSO may be obtained by the
contractor at the specific instructions of the Engineer. Such cases of
getting the uncontemplated works done should be very few and for in
between. It should not become a routine matter.

No extra payment will be made to the Contractor for carrying out these
incidental works, including cost of testing, if any, mainly for clarification
of doubts.

2.0 RAILWAY FORMATION

2.1 To achieve the objective of constructing a railway formation which

would give trouble free service, the design and construction procedures
should be such that it should be able to sustain the track geometry
under anticipated traffic densities and axle loads during service under
most adverse conditions of weather and maintenance of track
structure, which are likely to be encountered. This necessitates that:
(i) firstly, sub-grade in bank or cutting should be structurally sound so
as not to fail in shear strength under its own loads and live loads;
and
(ii) secondly, any settlement due to compaction and consolidation in
sub grade and sub-soil should be within the permissible limits.

2.2.1 Top width of formation should be adequate to accommodate track laid

with concrete sleepers with standard ballast section, and still leave a
minimum 900mm cess on either side. It should be regulated in
accordance with extant instructions of Indian Railways as detailed in
the Engineering Code.

2.2.2 Adequate drainage must be ensured for the worst service conditions.
The top of formation should have cross slope of 1 in 40 from centre of
track towards both sides for single line and from one end towards
cess/drain side (single slope) in multiple lines. Further elaboration on
drainage has been given subsequently.
2.2.3 Suitable and cost-effective erosion control system considering soil matrix,
topography and hydrological conditions to protect the side slopes of
bank should be provided. Further elaborations on this measure have
been given subsequently.
2.2.4 It will be necessary to keep borrow pits sufficiently away from the toe of
the embankments to prevent base failures due to lateral escapement of

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 3 of 41

Specifications RVNL
soil. The minimum distance to be provided between borrow pits and
railway bank will be decided by the Engineer, in each case, on its
merits. Existing borrows pits, close to toe of bank may be filled under
the specific instructions of the Engineer.

2.3 Provision of Blanket Layer

2.3.1 To avoid failure of track formation due to inadequate bearing capacity

and to safeguard against swelling and shrinking, a blanket layer
having adequate thickness and constructed with suitable materials
should be provided, both in banks and cuttings, at the time of
construction of new lines, Doublings, Gauge Conversions, Permanent
Diversions, Raising of Formations, Rehabilitation of failing track
formation etc. The requirement or otherwise of the blanket layer at
different locations along the length of the proposed double line and its
thickness will be decided by the Engineer at the time of plotting the
initial cross sections.

2.3.2 Specifications of Blanket Material

2.3.2.1 Blanket material should generally conform to following specifications:
a) It should be coarse, granular and well graded.
b) Skip graded material is not permitted.
c) Non -plastic fines (particles of size less than 75 micron) are limited
max. to 12%, whereas plastic fines are limited max. to 5%.
d) The blanket material should have particle size distribution curve
more or less within the enveloping curves shown in the design
drawings forming part of the tender. The material should be well
graded with Cu and Cc as under:

Uniformity coefficient, Cu = D 60/Dl0 > 4 (preferably > 7)

Coefficient of curvature, Cc = (D 30)2 / D60 x Dl0 should be within 1
and 3.
e) The material for upper blanket layer shall be well-graded sandy
gravel or crushed rock within the enveloping curves for upper
blanket layer as shown in the design drawing forming part of the
tender.
2.3.2.2 Gradation size analysis and percentage of fines analysis of blanket
material should be determined using wet sieve analysis as per
procedure of IS: 2720 (Part IV) - 1985.
2.3.2.3 Selection of Blanket Material
a) Proper survey of area close to the proposed double line, at
different locations needs to be carried out to identify suitable
sources for blanket material required. Aim of such source
identification survey is to use naturally available material, which is
cheap and conforms to the specifications laid down.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 4 of 41

Specifications RVNL
b) Blanket material may also be obtained by proper blending of two
or more soils. Before approving such sources, trials for blending
to judge the final product, needs to be done. Detail methodology
of blending to be adopted to produce large quantity of blanket
material with consistent quality, needs also to be laid down in
advance.
c) Quarry dust or material specifically manufactured through
crushers using boulders, rocks, etc. as raw material, conforming
to the blanket material specification could also be used as
blanketing material.
d) In rare case, where after studies/trials & survey, blanket material
has minor variation from the laid down specifications, experts
including RDSO guidance could be sought by the contractor under
the instructions of the Engineer after giving details of trials/studies
conducted along with justification and details of soil used for
subgrade over which blanket is proposed to be laid.
e) In any case, before planning for use of any material for formation
of blanket, Engineer’s specific approval is to be taken for the use
of that particular material and also for the location from where
such material will be quarried.
2.4 Use of geo-synthetics in the present work is not planned for reduction
of blanket thickness.
2.5 Side slope of embankment

The site slopes to be adopted for the banks and cutting in the length of
the proposed double line under this contract should generally confirm
to the following:

a) In Cuttings in soils : 1:1 (Horizontal : Vertical)

b) In Banks in all soils : 2:1 (Horizontal : Vertical)

The Engineer will decide the side slopes to be provided in cutting or

embankments, in case of poor base soils, on specific request from the
Contractor at the time of plotting the cross sections.

3.0 EXECUTION OF FORMATION EARTH WORK

Earthwork in formation in embankment shall be carried out with

suitable soil from outside railway land to be arranged by the
contractor at its own cost. No borrow pits for this purpose shall be
allowed on the railway land.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 5 of 41

Specifications RVNL
The work shall be executed in conformity to RDSO ‘Guidelines for
Earthwork in Railway Projects’-2003 (with latest amendments), which
forms a part of the contract documents.

The contractor shall, at its own cost, identify the soil, suitable for
Railway formation, which he proposes to use in construction of the
embankment and obtain the approval of Engineer for use of such said
soil.

The work of execution of earth work in embankment shall be carried

out and completed by the contractor as per these approved drawings
and specifications.

Execution of earth work has to be carried out in systematic manner so

as to construct formations of satisfactory quality which would give
trouble free service. The activities and adoption of good practices
involved in execution of earthwork are covered under following
headings: -
a) Preliminary works - Taking of initial levels and plotting cross
sections -
b) General aspects -
c) Compaction of earth work -
d) Placement of Back-Fills on Bridge Approaches and Similar
Locations
e) Drainage Arrangement in Bank/Cutting
f) Erosion control of slopes on banks & cuttings
g) Other aspects

3.1 Preliminary works

3.1.1 Preparation of Natural Ground

Preparation of natural ground surface may be carried out as follows:
3.1.1.1 Site clearances: Full formation width at ground level plus additional
extra width of 1 m on both sides should be cleared of all obstructions
viz. vegetation, trees, bushes, building, fences, abandoned structures
etc. and thereafter it should be dressed and leveled. Depressions if
any, should be filled with suitable soil duly compacted. Finally, leveled
surface should be properly compacted by mechanical means to get a
level and uniform ground surface,
3.1.1.2 When bank is constructed on ground having steep slope then the
ground surface should be suitably benched so that new material of
bank gets well bonded with the existing ground surface.

3.1.2 Setting out of construction limits

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 6 of 41

Specifications RVNL
Centerline of the alignment (@ 200 m c/c or so) and full construction
width should be demarcated with reference pegs and dog belling about
90 cm away from proposed toe of the bank. Care should be taken not
to disturb the pegs during construction. Pegs should be preferably
painted for identification.
3.1.3 Selection of borrow area
a) Borrow area should be selected sufficiently away from the
alignment, as far as possible but normally not less than 3 m plus
height of the embankment to prevent base failure due to lateral
escapement of the soil
b) Borrow area should be selected for soil suitable to be used in
construction,
3.1.4 Selection of Fill Material
a) Except for unsuitable soils, any type of locally available soil can be
used as a construction material. OMC & MDD of the selected fill
material should be tested in the laboratory as per laid down
frequency.
b) Use of material should be planned in such a way that soil with
higher percentage of coarse-grained particle is placed on the upper
layers of the embankment.
3.2 General Aspects
3.2.1 A field trial for compaction on a test section shall be conducted on fill
material to assess the optimum thickness of layer and optimum number
of passes for the type of roller planned to be used to arrive at desired
density. Procedure for field compaction trials is given in Annexure –IV
of ‘RDSO Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects’ for guidance.
3.2.2 If the soil has less than required moisture content, necessary amount
of water shall be added to it either in borrow pits or after the soil has
been spread loosely on the embankment. Addition of water may be
done through flooding or irrigating the borrow areas or sprinkling the
water on the embankment through a truck mounted water tank
sprinkling system. Use of hose pipe for water need to be avoided.
3.2.3 If the soil is too wet, it shall be allowed to dry till the moisture content
reaches to acceptable level required for the compaction.
3.2.4 Placement moisture content of soil should be decided based on the
field trial and site conditions. The objective should be to compact near
OMC to achieve uniform compaction with specified density in most
efficient manner.
3.2.5 Clods or hard lumps of soil of borrow area shall be broken to 75 mm or
lesser size before placing on embankment.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 7 of 41

Specifications RVNL
3.2.6 Each layer should be compacted with recommended type of roller upto
required level of compaction, commencing from the sides, before
putting next upper layer.
3.3 Compaction of Earth Work
Performance of the embankment would depend to large extent on the
quality of compaction done during execution. To ensure proper
compaction, precautions/ guidelines for this have been given in Para
6.3 of ‘RDSO Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects - 2003’.
This should invariably be followed.
3.4 Some salient details on compaction of earth work have been detailed in
Annexure ‘B’ to Section B – SPECIFICATIONS FOR EARTHWORK IN
FORMATION
3.4 Placement of Back-fills on Bridge Approaches and Similar
Locations
3.4.1 The back fills resting on natural ground may settle in spite of heavy
compaction and may cause differential settlements, vis-a-vis,
abutments, which rest on comparatively much stiffer base. To avoid
such differential settlements, while on one hand it is essential to
compact the back fill in the properly laid layers of soil, on the other
hand, the back fill should be designed carefully to keep;
i) Settlements within tolerable limits.
ii) Coefficient of subgrade reaction should have gradual change from
approach to the bridge,
3.4.2 Back-fills on bridge approaches shall be placed in accordance to para
605 of Indian Railways Bridge Manual 1998. Details are given in design
drawings forming part of the Tender.
3.4.3 Fill material being granular and sandy type soil, therefore need to be
placed in l50 mm or lesser thick layers and compacted with vibratory
plate compactors.
3.4.4 While placing backfill material, benching should be made in approach
embankment to provide proper bonding.
3.5 Drainage Arrangement in Banks
Drainage is the most important factor in the stability of bank/cutting in
railway construction. Effective drainage of the rainwater in the
monsoon season is very important to safe guard bank/cutting from
failure. Railway formation is designed for fully saturated condition of
soil. However, flow of water should not be allowed along the track as it
not only contaminates ballast but also erodes formation. Stagnation of
water for long time on formation is not desirable. Therefore, drainage

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 8 of 41

Specifications RVNL
system should be efficient enough to prevent stagnation and allow
quick flow of water.
3.5.1 Drainage of Embankment: In bank, cross slope is provided from
center towards end to drain out surface water. Therefore, normally
there is no need of side drains in case of embankment. However, there
are situations where height of bank is such that blanket layer goes
below normal ground level. In such cases, side drains may require to
be constructed along the track at suitable distance so that track
alignment does not become channel for flow of ground surface water.
3.6 Erosion Control of Slopes on Banks and Cuttings
3.6.1 Turfing:

3.6.1.1 Turfing shall not be commenced without the prior written permission of the
Engineer. The stretch of embankment where turfing is to be done should be
completed in all respects and should be so recorded in the level books.
Contractor should be given permission in writing to this effect before starting
the Turfing.

3.6.1.2 Before turfing is commenced, the side slopes are to be dressed to the
designated profile after cutting the extra width of 500 mm beyond the
designated profile. This dressing is included in the initial rate for earthwork,
and should a contractor stop work before dressing the bank, he shall be debited
with the estimated cost of the dressing to be done by another contractor or
departmental labour, as decided by the Engineer. Where the slope is already
consolidated, it should be loosened for a depth of about 4 cms before the sods
are laid.

3.6.1.3 The sod shall consist of dense, well-rooted growth of permanent and desirable
grasses and shall be practically free from weeds or other undesirable matter.
At the time the sod is cut, the grass on the sod shall have a length of
approximately 50 mm and the sod shall have been freed of debris.
Thickness of the sod shall be as uniform as possible, with some 50-80 mm or
so of soil covering the grass roots depending on the nature of the sod, so that
practically all the dense root system of the grasses is retained in the sod strip.
Each sod strip shall be laid edge to edge and such that the joints caused by
abutting ends are staggered. Every strip, after it is snugly placed against the
strips already in position, shall be lightly tamped with suitable wooden or
metal tampers so as to eliminate air pockets and to press it into the underlying
soil.
On side slopes steeper than 2 (horizontal) to 1 (vertical), the laying of sods
shall be started from bottom upwards.
The contractor shall be responsible for watering to ensure that the turf grows
properly; and in the event of it not doing so, he will returf such parts as have

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 9 of 41

Specifications RVNL
not grown, at his own cost. The turfing shall be measured and taken over only
after the grass has rooted well and has formed a sufficiently dense growth over
the earth slopes.
3.6.2 Plantation of Doob or other grass on bank slope: In this system, vegetation
is provided on exposed slopes. It is suited for soil with some clay fraction.
Method consists of preparing slope area by grading it for sowing seeds or
planting root strips of locally available creeping grass. It's root goes upto 50 to
75mm deep into the slopes serving as a soil anchor and offering added
resistance to erosion. Some typical species of grass which develop good
network of roots and considered suitable are listed below:

 Doob grass

 Chloris gyne

 Iponea gomeas (Bacharum Booti)

 Casuariva and goat foot creepers etc

 Vetiver grass (vetiveria zizanioides)

The contractor shall be responsible for watering to ensure that the grass grows
properly; and in the event of it not doing so, he will replant such parts as have
not grown, at his own cost. The plantation/turfing shall be measured and taken
over only after the grass has formed a sufficiently dense growth over the earth
slopes.
3.6.3 Sarkanda or similar type of planting on bank slopes: Where Sarkanda is
planted on bank slopes, the approximate distance centre to centre in rows shall
be 40 cm in either direction. The plantation in adjacent rows will be staggered
for proper coverage of the area. For other types of plantation, the local practice
shall be followed as directed by the Engineer.
The contractor shall be responsible for watering to ensure that the plantation
grows properly; and in the event of it not doing so, he will replant such parts
as have not grown, at his own cost. The plantation/turfing shall be measured
and taken over only after the grass has formed a sufficiently dense growth
over the earth slopes.
3.7 Execution of Earthwork

(a) The spreading of material in layers of desired thickness over

the entire width of embankment should be done by
mechanical means and finished by a motor grader. The motor
grader blade shall have hydraulic control suitable for initial
adjustment and maintain the same so as to achieve the slope and
grade.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 10 of 41

Specifications RVNL
(b) Thickness of layer is decided based on field compaction trials.
However, as a good practice thickness of layer should be
generally kept as 300 mm for fill material and 250 mm for blanket
material in loose state before compaction.

(c) Fill shall be placed and compacted in layers of specified

thickness. The rate of progress should be, as far as possible,
uniform so that the work is completed to final level almost at the
same time.

(d) The rolling for compaction of fill material should commence from
edges towards center with minimum overlap of 200 mm between
each run of the roller. In final pass, roller should simply move over
the surface without vibration so that top surface is properly
finished.

(e) Extra bank width of 500 mm on either side shall be rolled to

ensure proper compaction at the edges. The extra soil would be
cut and dressed to avoid any loose earth at the slopes. This
should preferably be done with help of grade cutter.

(f) At the end of the working day, fill material should not be left
uncompacted. Care should be taken during rolling to provide
suitable slope on top of the bank to facilitate quick shedding of
water and avoid ponding on formation.

(g) During construction of formation, there may be rainfall to the

extent that rain cuts may develop on the surface of formation due
to erosion of soil. Care should be taken that these rain cuts are
not allowed to develop wide and deep otherwise these locations
will remain weak spots. The contractor must ensure at its own
cost, to attend/ repair such rain cuts, as a regular measure to the
satisfaction of the Engineer.

(h) Top of the formation should be finished to a cross slope of 1 in 40

from one end to other towards cess/drain in multiple lines and
from center of formation to both sides in single line.

(i) Once the top surface of the formation has been finished to proper
slope and level, movement of either empty or loaded Road vehicle
for transportation of ballast, sleepers etc. should be avoided, as
these movements will cause development of unevenness, ruts on
the surface which will accumulate water and weaken the
formation. The methodology of transportation of P.Way materials
needs to be planned properly avoiding movement on finished
formation.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 11 of 41

Specifications RVNL
(j) In conversion/doubling/rehabilitation projects, suitable benching of
existing slope shall be done before new earthwork is taken up to
provide proper bonding material left on the benched slope. Care
needs to be taken to avoid entry of rainwater into the formation
from this weak junction, otherwise this would result in
development of weak formation, slope failure, maintenance
problem due to uneven settlement etc.

(k) At locations where the water table is high and the fill soil is fine-
grained, it may be desirable to provide a granular layer of about
30 cm thickness at the base, above subsoil across the full width of
formation. The contractor shall take this factor into account while
designing the formation.

(l) At the places where embankment materials are not conducive to

plant growth, top soil obtained from site clearance as well as top
layer of borrow pit which is rich in organic content and suitable for
plant growth, may be stored for covering slopes of embankment &
cutting after construction, or other disturbed areas, where re-
vegetation is required, as far as practicable.

4.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE OF EARTHWORK

To achieve effective performance of permanent assets created in New

line/Doubling/Gauge Conversion projects, adequate quality
control/checks at all stages of construction viz. selection of construction
materials, adoption of method, use of suitable machinery for
construction and during execution of work is essential. Following
quality control system needs to be adopted during execution of
earthwork
4.1 Setting up of GE Lab at Construction Site
A well-equipped Geotechnical Engineering (GE) Field Laboratory shall
be set up by the contractor at all construction projects connected with
new lines, doubling and gauge conversion works as well as, where
rehabilitation of failing formation is being undertaken. Number of such
GE labs to be established on a particular project/work site would
depend on the pace and length of work being executed at a particular
site and the output of the lab so that all quality control checks can be
performed effectively. The field lab should be manned adequately by
trained official and staff capable of carrying out required investigation,
soil testing and quality control at site.
a) Aspects to be looked after by field GE lab are as under:
i) To ensure that the quality of supplied soil and blanket material
conforms to the accepted limits of gradation, classification,
plasticity, etc

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 12 of 41

Specifications RVNL
ii) To evaluate method of compaction by conducting tests in
connection with field trials.
iii) To exercise moisture and density control as the earthwork
proceeds in layers rolled with suitable equipment.
b) Depending on the requirement, field lab shall be equipped with
minimum equipments as listed in the Annexure-X of ‘RDSO
Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects’ to facilitate the
following minimum tests.
i) Gradation Analysis-Sieve and Hydrometer
ii) Atterberg's limits -liquid limit & plastic limit
iii) Optimum Moisture Content (OMC), Maximum Dry Density
(MDD) and Relative Density.
iv) Placement moisture content & in-situ Density

4.2 Quality Check of Earthwork

Quality of execution of formation earthwork shall be controlled through
exercise of checks on the borrow material, blanket material,
compaction process, drainage system and longitudinal & cross
sectional profiles of the embankment. The Summary of quality control
of Earthwork has been given in Annexure –VII ‘RDSO Guidelines for
Earthwork in Railway Projects’. The details of quality control procedure
are as follows: -
4.2.1 Quality Control on Construction Material
This is required to ascertain the suitability of the material for
construction of embankment and to decide the OMC and MDD, which
become the quality control inputs for compaction control. Control tests
are required to be done for borrow material as well as blanket material
by the contractor to the satisfaction of the Engineer.
4.2.1.1 Borrow Material
Fill material proposed to be used would have to be assessed for its
suitability as well as to decide thickness of blanket layer, after
conducting soil classification and other relevant tests as per site
requirement. Further tests, if needed, should be performed as directed
by engineer to fully assess the material. On the basis of the tests,
areas for borrow material, from outside the Railway land, needs to be
earmarked. Once the material has been found fit for use as fill material
for embankment, further lab tests, to assess OMC, MDD/ Relative
Density, need to be conducted. In case, slope stability analysis, as
explained in para 2.4 is required, triaxial test will also be done to find
effective shear parameters. It would be in the interest of the execution
agency to have frequent tests conducted on his own to judge the

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 13 of 41

Specifications RVNL
suitability of the material to avoid any complication at a later stage.
However, the final acceptance of the borrow material shall be at the
site where it is laid, as follows:
(a) Frequency of Testing at Site: At least one test at every change
of soil strata subject to minimum of one test for every 5000 cum
to assess suitability of fill material and to lay down OMC and
MDD/Relative Density.
(b) Acceptance Criteria: Materials conforming to para 5.0 of
‘RDSO Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects’ need only
to be used for construction of embankment.
Dredged material from the wells obtained during well sinking, if found
suitable and conforming to specifications, may be permitted to be used
in Formation of Embankment by the Engineer, at its sole discretion, on
the request of the contractor to this effect.
4.2.1.2 Blanket Material
The source of blanket material, detailed in para 4.3.4.2 of ‘RDSO
Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects’, needs to be identified
based on tests & studies conducted and conformity of the material to
the Specification as laid down in para 4.3.4 of ‘RDSO Guidelines for
Earthwork in Railway Projects’. It would be desirable to have a check
on quality of material at source/manufacturing point so that major
deviation in quality of the material being sent to site does not exist. It
would be in the interest of the Contractor to have such tests conducted
on his own to avoid any complication at a later stage. The frequency of
such test could be laid down by the Engineer, if need be. However, the
final acceptance of the blanket material shall be at the site where it is
laid, as follows:
(a) Frequency of Tests at Site: Minimum one test per 500 cum or
part thereof
(b) Method of Test:
Blanket material should be. tested as per IS: 2720 (Part 4) to plot
particle size distribution curve, so as. to assess its suitability. It
would be necessary to carry out wet analysis to assess actual
percentage of fines. To expedite testing work, dry sieve analysis
may be carried out if variation between results of dry and wet
analysis are not significant and adequate margin exists with
respect to acceptance criteria. However, in such cases also, wet
analysis has to be carried out at frequent interval to verify the
extent of variation. In any situation, acceptance of blanket material
would be based on wet analysis only. The samples for wet analysis
should be prepared as per para 4.3 of IS: 2720 (part 4).
(c) Acceptance Criteria:

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 14 of 41

Specifications RVNL
The material should generally conform to specification as given at
para 4.3.4 of ‘RDSO Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects’.

4.2.2 Quality Control Checks on Finished Earthwork

4.2.2.1 Compacted Earth: Degree of compaction of each layer of compacted

soil should be ascertained by measurement of dry density/Relative
Density of soil at locations selected in specified pattern. The method of
sampling, frequency of tests, method of tests to be conducted and
acceptance criteria to be adopted are as under. All tests shall be
carried out by the Contractor in the presence of the Engineer’s
representative.
a) Method of Sampling
i) Various methods of selection of sample points for check of in-situ
dry density are in vogue. The sampling adopted has to be such
that effectiveness of proper compaction having been done for the
entire area under consideration can be judged. For this, the
Engineer shall lay down the method adopted in detail depending
on site conditions and accordingly records of checks done shall be
properly maintained. However, in absence of such procedure laid
down, following method should be adopted.
Suggested method of sampling:. For each layer, a minimum of
one sample at a predetermined interval (in compliance with the
requirement stated in next para) along the centre line of the
alignment, would be taken in a staggered pattern so as to attain a
minimum frequency of tests as given in the para 4.2.2.1 (b). For
subsequent layer, the stagger should be such that the point of
sampling does not fall vertically on the earlier sampling points of
the layer immediately below. Additional sampling points can be
taken, as considered necessary.
ii) In case of bank widening, sampling should be done at an interval
of minimum 200metres on widened side(s) of embankment.
b) Frequency of Tests: Density check would be done for every layer of
compacted fill/blanket material as per following minimum frequency:
i) At least one density check for every 30m length of blanket layers and
top one meter of prepared sub-grade along the alignment in a
staggered pattern of each compacted layer.
ii) At least one density check for layers other than as specified in (i)
above, every 500 sq.m. or 75m c/c whichever occurs earlier along the
alignment in a staggered pattern of each compacted layer
iii) In case of important bridge approaches (100m length on either side),
at least one density check for every 25m length shall be adopted.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 15 of 41

Specifications RVNL
c) Method of in-situ dry density measurements : Any of the following
methods could be adopted as per the requirements at site:

Method of Procedure of Parameters to be Remarks

measurement test measured
i) Sand As per IS- a) Insitu Dry May be adopted for
replacement 2720 (Part 28) Density all type of soils
method 1974 b) Moisture
content
ii) Core Cutter As per IS- -do- In some of the
Method 2720 (Part 29) coarse-grained soils
1975 (with little fines)
taking core cutter
samples is difficult.
In such cases, sand
replacement
method may be
used for density
measurement.
iii) Nuclear Moisture As issued by a) Bulk density May be adopted for
Density Gauge RDSO b) Moisture content all type of soils
c) Dry density
d) Degree of
compaction

iv) Compactor As issued by As issued by RDSO May be used in

meters fitted on RDSO consultation with
roller (On roller RDSO
continuous
compaction
control)

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 16 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 17 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 18 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 19 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 20 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 21 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 22 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 23 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 24 of 41

Specifications RVNL
d) Acceptance Criteria :
i) Coarse grained soils which contains fines passing 75 micron IS Sieve,
upto 5 percent should have the Density Index (Relative Density) a
minimum of 70% as obtained in accordance with IS: 2720 ( Part 14)
-1983.
ii) For other soils, field dry density should not be less than maximum
attainable dry density obtained in field compaction trial. However, in
field compaction trial, the maximum attainable dry density should not
be less than 98% of MDD values as obtained by Heavy Compaction
Test (IS: 2720 (part 8) -1983) in the laboratory. In case, there are
difficulties in achieving 98% of the MDD values as obtained by
Laboratory test, in the field trials, the same may be relaxed upto 95% of
MDD with the specific approval of the Engineer recording reasons of
such relaxation.
iii) During widening of bank in case of gauge conversion and rehabilitation
of unstable formation, compaction of earthwork should be. minimum
98% of MDD as obtained by Laboratory test as per Heavy Compaction
Test (IS: 2720 (part 8) -1983) or 70% Relative Density for cohesion
less soil (IS: 2720 ( Part 14) -1983).
4.2.2.2 Formation level: Finished top of sub-grade level may have variation
from design level by + 25 mm and finished top of blanket layer may
also be permitted to have variation from design level by plus 25 mm.
The ballast should be placed only on level foundation without ruts or
low pockets.
4.2.2.3 Cross Slope : Cross slope should be within 1 in 38 to 1 in 40.
4.2.2.4 Side slopes: Side slope should in no case be steeper than designed
side slope. Provision of berm width should not be less than the
designed width.
4.2.2.5 Formation width: Formation width should not be less than the specified
width.
4.3 Speed of section during opening: Design and quality of construction
should be such, so as to ensure opening of new lines, gauge
conversions and doublings at full sectional speed and the same can be
maintained through out the service life from geo-technical
considerations.

5.0 MAINTENANCE OF RECORDS

At work site, details of works along with materials being used are to be
properly recorded so that work of satisfactory quality can be achieved
which can also be verified at later stage. Records are also required to

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 25 of 41

Specifications RVNL
be maintained to develop completion drawings and other details, which
would become permanent records of the section and could be helpful
in future to plan developmental activities and remedial measures if
need be. Some of important records to be maintained by the Contractor
are as follows:

5.1 Quality Control Records

At least, following records of quality control as per proformae given in

Annexures of ‘RDSO Guidelines for Earthwork in Railway Projects’,
shall be maintained by the contractor to the satisfaction of the
Engineer:
i) Characteristics of borrow materials as per proforma No.1 of
Annexure –VI.
ii) Quality of blanket materials as per proforma No.2 of Annexure –
VI.
iii) Field compaction trial details as per proforma in Table 3 of
Annexure –IV.
iv) Quality of compaction of earthwork including blanket material as
per proforma No.3 for core cutter method & 4 for sand
replacement method of Annexure VI.
v) Quality of material and its compaction for back fill behind bridge
approaches etc as per proformas.

vi) Details of machineries engaged in execution of earth work

including its out put as per proforma to be decided by the
Engineer.

5.2 Permanent Records: The contractor shall prepare completion

drawing of embankments and cuttings indicating details of special
construction features like toe-walls, breast wall, catch and side drains,
cross section of embankment/ cutting, type of soil in subgrade and
depth of blanketing material, geological features etc.

These permanent records shall be handed over to the Engineer at the

time of handing over of the section on completion of the work.
6.0 REQUEST FOR INSPECTION
A request for inspection complete with all necessary information to
allow assessment shall be submitted to the Engineer for the following
activities and approval must have been received prior to commencing
any follow on activity.
a) Acceptance of preparation of Natural Ground.
b) Acceptance of selection of fill material and field trial of
compaction.
Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 26 of 41
Specifications RVNL
c) Acceptance of first & subsequent layers of filling; layer wise (each
layer).
d) Acceptance of selection of back fills for bridge approaches.
e) Acceptance of first & subsequent layers of backfills (layer wise
each layer).
f) Acceptance of selection of blanketing material.
g) Acceptance of first & subsequent layers of blanketing (each layer).
h) Acceptance of formation on completion.

7.0 MEASUREMENTS & RATE FOR PAYMENTS

7.1 Earthwork
Earthwork is of two types i.e. earthwork in filling and earthwork in cutting.
The classification of soils met with in executing the earthwork in cutting shall
be made by the Engineer/ Engineer’s representative authorized by the
Engineer for this purpose subject to the approval and final decision of the
Engineer, if not made by him. The rates to be paid to the contractor in his bills
shall be based on these classifications.

(A) Earthwork in cutting shall be divided under the following heads:

i) Soil excluding rock: This shall include all type of soils such as
vegetable or organic soil, turf, sand, gravel, loam, clay, mud, black
cotton, moorum, kankar soil, shingle and boulder studded soil and soft
conglomerate, river or nallah bed boulders, hard core, macadam surface
of any description (water bound, grouted tarmac etc.), lime concrete,
mud concrete and their mixtures which for excavation yields to
application of picks, showels, jumper, sacrifiers, ripper and other
manual digging implements.

ii) Rock Not Requiring Blasting: This shall include any rock which can
be. This shall also include laterite and hard conglomerate.

iii) Hard Rock Requiring Blasting: This shall include any rock or
boulder which cannot be excavated or split with crow bars or similar
means and requires blasting for the excavation.
(B) Computation of Quantities for various classifications of soil for Earthwork
in Cutting: For purpose of payment, cuttings shall be assumed to be
composed of such soil / soils only, as stand exposed on both or one side of the
finished cuttings, depending upon whether the cutting is box type or one sided
on a transversely sloping ground. The content of each type of soil thus
assigned to any cross section shall be determined as indicated below. It is to be
noted that no portion of cutting will be payable for any such type of soil as is
not exhibited on the finished side slope, where the side slope exists.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 27 of 41

Specifications RVNL
(a) For box type cutting: The centre line of the alignment will be marked
vertically on the cross section and the content of each type of soil will
be determined by computing the area of the strip, formed by joining the
points, which form the extremity of occurrence of the particular soil on
the finished side slope of cutting, by straight horizontal lines
terminating on the centre line. Figure No.1.1 (given below)is
illustrative of the manner in which payment is to be made.

(b) For one sided cutting on a transversely sloping ground: Content of each type
of soil will be determined by computing the area of the strip, formed by joining
the points, which form the extremity of occurrence of the particular soil on the
finished side slope of the cutting, by straight lines to the zero point. Zero point is
the point in the cross section at which cutting becomes zero and the cross section
beyond this point comes in filling. Figure No.1.2 (given below) is illustrative of
the manner in which the payment for the cutting will be made.

(c) For widening of existing cuttings for one or more lines where the existing
cutting slope disappears and a fresh slope stands: Before undertaking
widening of the cutting, pre-classification of the existing cutting slope (which
will disappear) should be done after clearing and cleaning the surface and the
strata met marked on the cross-section sheets. After completion of the work
various strata as stand exposed on the new finished slope of the cutting shall
again be marked on the cross-sections. Then the demarcation points of adjacent
strata as determined by classification of the existing slope and the final slope
should be joined as shown in Figure No. 1.3(given below). The cross-sectional
areas for different strata may be worked out and quantities payable classification-
wise assessed accordingly.

(d) For extension to the existing cutting where no fresh cutting slope is available
after work: Before execution of the work pre-classification of the existing
cutting slope which will not be finally available, should be done and recorded in
the initial cross-section. Figure No. 1.4 is illustrative of the manner in which the
payment for the cutting is to be made for soil of different classifications.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 28 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 29 of 41

Specifications RVNL

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 30 of 41

Specifications RVNL

7.1.1 Measurement
7.1.1.1 Taking of initial levels and plotting cross sections

(a) Before starting any work connected with execution of earth

work, the centre line of the alignment should be stacked on
ground by the contractor. The curves should also be laid out
properly. The Engineer should verify this stacked alignment and
get it corrected, if found necessary.

(b) The Engineer, in presence of the contractor, should then record

the ground levels forming the initial records for payment of earth
work. The level books where these ground levels are recorded
should be signed both by the Engineer and Contractor. 2 photo
copies of these level books indicating each day’s work should
then be taken for the record of the Engineer and Contractor.
The original level books should be submitted to the Employer for
safe custody.

(c) Normally longitudinal level shall be taken at intervals of 20 m,

but where the ground is uneven or there is a sudden raise or fall
in the levels, these at the discretion of the Engineer may be
taken at closer intervals.

(d) Normally for cross sections, level shall be taken at intervals of

not more than 10 m. Levels for cross sections may be taken at
closer intervals, if circumstances so warrant in the opinion of the
Engineer.

(e) The contractor should then prepare the drawing showing the
Longitudinal levels and the cross sections taking the ground
levels from his copy of level book. In the cross sections, the
blanket layer should clearly be shown.

(f) Thus prepared drawings indicating the longitudinal levels and

the cross sections should be checked and approved by the
Engineer and any corrections required should be got done.
These drawings should be signed both by the Contractor and
the Engineer.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 31 of 41

Specifications RVNL
(g) Two photo copies of these drawings should then be taken for
the record of the Engineer and Contractor. The original
drawings should be sent to the Employer for safe custody.

(h) All the above mentioned works for each Reach should be done
before the commencement of further work connected with
construction of embankment.
7.1.1.2 Similarly when the earth work in formation has been completed up to
the bottom of the blanket layer, levels and measurements should be
taken by the Engineer in presence of the Contractor. The level books
containing these levels should be signed by both the Engineer and
Contractor. Two photo copies of these level books should be taken –
one for the record of contractor and one for the record of the Engineer.
These original level books should be handed over to the Employer
before start of the work of blanketing.
7.1.1.3 Similarly when the work of embankment including blanket layer, if any,
has been completed the levels and measurements should be taken by
the Engineer in presence of the Contractor. The level books containing
these levels should be signed by both the Engineer and Contractor.
Two photo copies of these level books should be taken – one for the
record of contractor and one for the record of the Engineer. These
original level books should be handed over to the Employer before
handing over the completed the work.
7.1.1.4 The final profiles of the completed work should be plotted on the cross
section sheets containing the initial levels by the Contractor. The
Contractor and the Engineer should sign these sheets which forms the
record of as constructed work.
7.1.1.5 The gross volume of earth work shall be calculated from the original
and finished profile of the bank/cutting.For the purpose of payment ,
the gross quantity thus calculated shall be reduced by 5% towards
shrinkage allowance for earth work in embankment only if the
embankment has been compacted by heavy machinery as per RVNL
Standard Specifications and the BOQ of the contract (no such
deductions shall be made for earth work in cuttings). However, if with
approval the Engineer, the embankment has not been compacted as
above, shrinkage allowance shall be deducted at the rate of 10%of
the gross quantity of earth work.
The payment, however, will be restricted only to the approved
design profiles furnished by the Engineer; or the actual quantity
executed whichever is less.

7.1.2 Rate :

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 32 of 41

Specifications RVNL
The contract unit rate for the item of the earth work in embankment
shall be paid in full for carrying out all the above operations specified
for earthwork in formation.
7.1.3 Rate quoted for Earth Work by the bidders shall be deemed to include
the following:

7.1.3.1 The rate quoted by the bidder/s shall be deemed to include work
necessary for setting out the execution of works in the different phases
as ordered by the Engineer’s Representative. No extra payment shall be
made for such works or for phase works carried out which are necessary
for satisfactory execution of works.

7.1.3.2 The rates quoted by the bidder/s shall be deemed to include clearing the
site of all bushes, roots, grass etc. demarcating by furrows the toes/
edges of the slopes of banks/ cutting and cost of setting out by stakes,
bamboos, strings, pegs etc. and benching of slopes. After site clearance
all pockets and depressions in the soil, shall be made good and
compacted.

7.1.3.3 The rate quoted by the bidders shall be deemed to include excavation in
all types of soil whether dry or wet, loading into and unloading from
contractor’s own transport, all leads and lifts, filling in bank in layers,
dressing all slopes and surface to final dimensions.

7.1.3.4 Rate quoted by the bidder shall be deemed to include the cost of
maintenance of the bank/cutting by the contractor to the correct profile
including repairs of all rain cuts and removal of slips making good the
profile etc. until final measurement have been taken by the Engineer-in-
charge. Completed bank/ cutting shall be taken over after the final
measurements are recorded.

7.1.3.5 No extra payment shall be made for any interruption or shrinkage,

settlement, slips damages etc. that take place due to rains during the
course of works and /or for wet excavation. Final measurement will be
taken of the finished bank/ cutting to required specified slope to the
satisfaction of the Engineer.

7.1.3.6 The quoted rates by the bidder shall be deemed to include cutting of
trees up to ground level and branches (infringing moving dimension and
coming in the way of earthwork) up to 30cm away from the toe of the
proposed bank after obtaining necessary permission from the Forest

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 33 of 41

Specifications RVNL
Department wherever necessary and also up-rooting the major roots to a
maximum depth of 1.5 m. In case the Contractor fails to obtain such
permission before cutting any trees, then he will indemnify the Employer
against all claims made by the Forest Department. The branches and
trees and roots cut by the contractor shall be handed over to Authorised
Railway Representative.

7.1.3.7 The affected trees and branches which are coming in the way of work,
will be marked by the Engineer’s representative and only these trees and
branches which have been thus marked and listed will be removed by
the contractor and handed over to Engineer.

7.1.3.8 The rates quoted by the bidder shall be deemed to include execution of
earth in water logged and swampy area wherever they come across and
no claim for any extra payment on this account shall be entertained.

7.1.3.9 The work shall be carried out as per the longitudinal section plan and
cross section profile to be furnished by the Engineer.

7.1.3.10 The rates quoted by the bidder shall be deemed to include mechanical
compaction of the earthwork in bank shall cover full cost of the finished
bank.

7.1.3.11 The rates quoted by the bidder shall be deemed to include the work of
clearing the site after completion of work.

7.1.3.12 Extra earthwork above the required level will have to be scrapped by the
contractor before recording the final levels. No payments will be made for
such extra earthwork or for removing it to the required levels.

7.2 Blanketing Material

(a) Measurement
Measurement shall be based on the volume computed from
cross section.

(b) Rate

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 34 of 41

Specifications RVNL
The contract unit rate for the item of blanketing material shall be
paid in full for carrying out all the above operations specified for
blanketing above formation.

7.3 On account payments

7.3.1 Contractor will ensure correct levels for doing earthwork in bank.
Levels will be checked at different stages of the work to form the basis
for running bill payments.

7.3.2 On account payment for unfinished work for earthwork, may at the
discretion of the Engineer, be made up to 90% of the accepted rate for
the quantity of work calculated up to the layer accepted, by taking
representative measurements, at intervals of 100 meter, which may be
increased/reduced with the permission of the employer.

(I) For this purpose cross sectional areas are to be recorded as

measurements at each chainage and the quantity shall be
worked out by multiplying the length and the average cross
sectional area between the two consecutive chainage. No other
records are required to be submitted with the on account bill.

(ii) On account payment for embankment shall be admissible if the

embankment has been constructed as per designed profile upto
any intermediate level which shall be checked as under:

Levels at the centre line and both the edges of the bank along
with width of the bank at that level shall be taken and shall be
either marked with pencil on the existing cross section sheets or
plotted on the computerized cross section to check if the bank
width executed on either side of the centre line is equal to or
more than the required width as per designed profile plus 50cm,
only then the bank will be acceptable for payment.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 35 of 41

Specifications RVNL
ANNEXURE ‘ A’ TO SECTION – B – SPECIFICATION FOR EARTH
WORK

1.1 Various aspects of designing a sub-grade & subsoil

Sub grade should be designed to be safe against shear failure and

large deformations. Adequacy of subsoil against shear strength and
settlement should also be examined.

This part of the work has already been completed. There is no

necessity for the successful tenderer to undertake this work, save in
very rare and exceptional circumstances declared by the Engineer.

1.2 Design of Thickness and selection of material

1.2.1 Depth of Blanket Layer

Depth of blanket layer of specified material depends primarily on type

of subgrade soil and axle load of the traffic.
1.2.1.1 Depth of blanket to be provided for axle loads upto 22.5t for different
types of subgrade soils (minimum top one meter thickness) are
detailed blow. In case more than one type of soil exists in top one
meter depth , then soil requiring higher thickness of blanket will govern.
a) Following soils do not need blanket:
 Rocky beds except those, which are very susceptible to
weathering e.g. rocks consisting of shales and other soft rocks
which become muddy after coming into contact with water.
 Well graded Gravel (GW).
 Well graded Sand (SW)
 Soils conforming to specifications of blanket material
Note: Soils having grain size curve lying on the right side of the
enveloping curves for blanket material like cobbles and boulders
may/may not need blanket.
b) Following soils shall need minimum 45cm thick Blanket:
 Poorly graded Gravel (GP) having Uniformity Coefficient more
than 2.
 Poorly grade Sand (SP) having Uniformity Coefficient more than
2.
 Silty Gravel (GM)
 Silty Gravel -Clayey Gravel (GM- GC).

c) Following soils shall need minimum 60cm thick Blanket:

 Clayey Gravel (GC)
 Silty Sand (SM)
Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 36 of 41
Specifications RVNL
 Clayey Sand (SC)
 Clayey Silty sand (SM-SC)

Note: The thickness of blanket on above type of soils shall be

increased to 1 m, if the plasticity index exceeds 7.

d) Following types of soils shall need minimum 1m thick Blanket

 Silt with low plasticity (ML )
 Silty clay of low plasticity (ML-CL )
 Clay of low plasticity (CL)
 Silt of medium plasticity (MI)
 Clay of medium plasticity (CI)
 Rocks which are very susceptible to weathering
1.2.1.2 Soils having proportion of fines passing 75 micron sieve, between 5 &
12% i.e. for soils with dual symbol e.g., GP-GC, SW-SM, etc.,
thickness of blanket should be provided as per soil of second symbol
(of dual symbol) as per para 2.3.1.1. For example, if the soil of the
subgrade over which the blanket is to be provided is classified as GP-
GC then blanket depth for GC type of soil i.e. 60 cm as per para 2.3.1.1
( c ) is to the provided.
1.2.1.3 For heavier axle load traffic above 22.5t and upto 25t & above 25t to
30t, additional blanket thickness of 30cm & 45cm respectively, over
and above as given in para 2.3.1.1 of superior quality materials as
indicated in the tender design drawings may be provided.

1.3 Specifications of Blanket Material

1.3.1 Blanket material should generally conform to following specifications:
a) It should be coarse, granular and well graded.
b) Skip graded material is not permitted.
c) Non -plastic fines (particles of size less than 75 micron) are limited
max. to 12%, whereas plastic fines are limited max. to 5%.
d) The blanket material should have particle size distribution curve
more or less within the enveloping curves shown in the design
drawings forming part of the tender. The material should be well
graded with Cu and Cc as under:

Uniformity coefficient, Cu = D 60/Dl0 > 4 (preferably > 7)

Coefficient of curvature, Cc = (D 30)2 / D60 x Dl0 should be within 1
and 3.
e) The material for upper blanket layer shall be well-graded sandy
gravel or crushed rock within the enveloping curves for upper

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 37 of 41

Specifications RVNL
blanket layer as shown in the design drawing forming part of the
tender.
1.3.2 Gradation size analysis and percent fines of blanket material should be
determined using wet sieve analysis as per procedure of IS: 2720 (Part
IV) - 1985.
1.4 Design of Side Slope of Embankment

1.4.1 Slope stability analysis should be carried out to design stable slopes for
the embankment. Usually, slopes of 2:1 of embankment upto height of
6.0 m would be safe for most of the soils. However, this analysis has to
be carried out in detail for any height of embankment in following
situations:

a) When subsoil is soft, compressible & marshy type for any depth.
b) When subgrade soil (fill material) has very low value of cohesion C'
such that C’/OH (where H is height of embankment and O is bulk
density of soil) is negligible, i.e in range of 0.01 or so.
c) When highest water table is within 1.5xH (H is the height of
embankment), below ground level, then submerged unit weight of
soil below water level should be taken.
1.4.2 In cutting slope, softening of soil occurs with the passage of time, and
therefore, long term stability is the most critical, and should be taken
into consideration while designing the cuttings.
1.4.3 Detailed slope stability analysis may be carried out according to the
procedure detailed in Annexure-III of ‘RDSO, Guidelines for Earthwork
in Railway Projects’ wherein a typical worked out example of slope
stability analysis is also given for guidance. This procedure would be
applicable for most of the cases. However, in certain rare situations
where, further detailed analysis may be required due to the site
conditions, the same may be got done by the contractor through an
expert consultant including RDSO nominated by the Engineer
1.4.4 Slope stability analysis may also be carried out using standard
computer programme /software especially made for this purpose.
However, the efficacy of the software used should have approval the
Engineer.
1.4.5 As already indicated in the foregoing paras, for the present Patch
doubling works, as the banks or of very low height , carrying out the
work of either design of side slope of the embankment or slope stability
analysis is not contemplated.

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 38 of 41

Specifications RVNL
ANNEXURE ‘ B’ TO SECTION – B – SPECIFICATION FOR EARTH
WORK

1.0 Compaction
1.1 Each layer should be compacted to the desired density over its entire width
commencing from the sides, before the next layer is commenced. There
should be minimum overlap of 150mm between each run of the rollers. Care
should be taken during rolling to suitably slope the surface of the bank to
facilitate the shedding; and to minimise absorption of rainwater; special
attention being given to the prevention of ponding.

1.2 The suitability of various rolling equipment for different types of soils should
be as per the sound Engineering practices. Guidelines given in RDSO
instructions for earthwork may be referred as given in Annexure-V (of the
guidelines).

1.3 Extra wide bank by 50 cm on either side shall be rolled and then dressed to
size for avoiding any loose earth at the shoulders.

1.4. Five samples shall be collected for testing of each compacted layer of
1000m2.

2.0 Compaction of Sandy or Silty Soils with Moderate Cohesion

2.1 With the moderate cohesion, the compaction in layers by rollers is most
effective. Vibratory roller have been found more effective than the static roller
and greater thickness of layers can be allowed.

2.2.1 The water content at which a soil is compacted has an effect on all the
physical properties of compacted soil, however, physio-chemical properties
remain unchanged. Embankment soil shall attain moisture density equilibrium
during weather cycles and the bank/ cutting should be safe during service
conditions. Therefore, design parameters should be carefully selected to cater
for the most unfavourable conditions.

i. The quarry shall be approved after testing the soil samples in the
laboratory for determination of soil parameters.

ii. The moisture content at which a specific amount of compaction will

produce maximum dry density in a soil shall be worked out by laboratory
testing and ensured in the field

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 39 of 41

Specifications RVNL
2.3 Water content as desired, and densities should be specified as obtained in the
field trials, as per IS: 10379- 1982. For guidance during field trials to
determine the thickness of layers, dry densities to be achieved and optimum
moisture content, laboratory tests for heavy compaction as per IS:2720
(Pt.VIII) – 1983 should be carried out for obtaining these. Densities stained in
field trials normally should be around Maximum Dry Densities as obtained
from these tests and should form the basis for specifications and control. The
moisture content controls may not be specified and 98% of such densities as
achieved in field trials are only specified.

2.4 For compaction controls, IS:2720 (Pt. XXXVIII)-1976 should be used for field
trials.

2.5 Any relaxation in the above-mentioned specifications, if necessary due to special

circumstances, should have the approval of the Engineer.

3.0 Compaction of Clays

3.1 Main objectives of compacting predominantly clayey soils is to achieve a

uniform mass of soil with no voids between the chunks of clays tht are placed
during the earthwork. If moisture content is too high, rollers tend to sink into
the soil and if too low, the chunks would not yield to rolling by rollers.
Maximum Dry Densities and Optimum Moisture Contents should be found
from laboratory tests for heavy compaction as specified in IS: 2720 (Pt. VIII)-
1983. the laboratory results may only be used for arriving at those practically
achievable values of densities and optimum moisture contents as obtained
from the field trials as per IS: 10379-1982.

3.2. Sheep-foot rollers are most effective in breaking the clods and filling large
spaces. The layer thickness should be equal to the depth of the feet of roller
plus 50mm. For specifications o sheep-foot rollers IS:4616-1968 may be
referred.

4.0 Sub-Grade Compaction

4.1 After site clearance, all pockets and depressions left in the soil, if any, should
be made good and compacted suitably.

5.0 Method of Compaction

5.1 Earthwork should be done in layer not exceeding 300mm to 600mm thick in
the loose state with the static and vibratory rollers respectively. The thickness
of the loose layer should be decided after the preliminary trial with the

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 40 of 41

Specifications RVNL
equipment proposed to be used, as per IS Code; 10379-1982. The layer
should be compacted preferably at or near the water content thus determined
with suitable rollers to achieve the desired density of 98 % of MDD as
obtained from heavy compaction as per IS: 2720 (Pt.VIII)-1983. It would be
necessary to use right type of compaction equipment for proper and speedy
compaction. For quality control of earthwork, however, only practically
achievable values of densities would be indicated as obtained from the field
trials.

5.2 The performance of rollers is dependent mainly on the type of soil. The
different type of rollers and the types of soil for which they are more suitable
are given in Annexure-V of RDSO guideline.

5.3 Before the work is commenced, field compaction trials should be conducted
as per IS Code: 10379-1982 for deciding upon the most desirable moisture
content and economical thickness of layer and the number of passes required
to achieve the specified density. Heavy compaction tests should be first
carried out on the soil from the borrow pit areas to ascertain the optimum
moisture content and the maximum dry density

6.0 Moisture Content

6.1 The objective should be to compact near OMC or above to achieve the
density as specified in most efficient manner

Volume I – Part A - Earth Work Page 41 of 41