TIME DELAY AND COST OVERRUN OF ROAD OVER BRIDGE (ROB) CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS IN INDIA

Abstract

Road Over Bridges (ROBs) are critical grade-separated structures constructed over railway level crossings to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow and safety. In India, ROBs are warranted when the Train Vehicle Unit (TVU) exceeds 100,000, particularly on National and State Highways where traffic density and train frequency are high. However, ROB projects are often plagued by time delays and cost overruns, undermining their effectiveness. This study investigates the causes and extent of such delays and overruns through both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative analysis involved a literature survey, expert consultations, and questionnaire surveys administered to owners, contractors, and consultants. Responses were analyzed using Frequency Index (FI) ranking and correlation analysis, identifying five foremost factors: delays in land acquisition, involvement of multiple stakeholders, displacement of existing infrastructure networks, legal hurdles, and stakeholder claims and disputes. To derive deeper insights, factor analysis grouped 29 identified causes into meaningful clusters. The quantitative analysis utilized data from 81 ROB projects completed between 2005 and 2015, segregating projects with and without land acquisition and utility shifting. Multiple regression models were developed to predict the quantum of time delay and cost overrun, and the models were found statistically valid and robust. The findings highlight systemic challenges in ROB construction and provide empirical tools for forecasting project risks. This research contributes to better planning, stakeholder coordination, and policy formulation, ultimately supporting timely and cost-effective ROB implementation in India.