Optimisation of maintenance strategy for rural road network using genetic algorithm

The objective of this paper is to develop an optimised maintenance strategy for the rural road network of Kerala state. This is accomplished with the development of a bi-objective deterministic optimisation model which simultaneously satisfies the objectives of both minimisation of total maintenance cost and maximisation of performance of the road network. The model is capable of planning the maintenance activities over a multi-year planning period. The performance of the road network is accounted using the composite index, namely Pavement Condition Index. The constraint-based genetic algorithm was used as the optimisation tool since it very well takes care of the combinatorial nature of the network-level pavement maintenance programming. The applicability of the model is illustrated using a case study for the rural road network of Kerala state in India. The effort made through this research work to develop a suitable Pavement Maintenance and Management System for rural road network can lead to the proper maintenance and upkeep of the rural roads, thereby triggering a positive impact on the Indian economy.