Types of Surveys

for Railway Projects

 TYPE OF SURVEYS
Surveys are conducted for NL, GC, DL, Yard re-modellings,
Passenger Terminals etc.
1. RECT
Reconnaissance Engineering cum Traffic
Rapid investigation to give approx. distances & heights
and approximate cost.
2. PECT
Preliminary Engineering cum Traffic
Instrumental survey in order to obtain close estimate.
3. FLS
Final Location Survey
With detailed instrumental survey & Accurate cost.

NOTE: RECT & PECT will be called as feasibility Study (Rly.

Bd. letter No. 2021/W-I/Gen/Gati Shakti dt. 27.07.2022)
 WHERE TO REFER
Code for the Engineering Department (Engineering Code)
 Chapter II- Modes of investigation of Railway Project
 Chapter III- Traffic Survey
 Chapter IV- Engineering Survey
 Chapter V- Engineering Survey- Project Reports

 Latest Rly Board letters (DPR/DE shortcomings & proforma)

• No. 2015//W-I/Gen/Corr. GM/Part 2 dt. 07.10.2020
• No. 2022/W-I/Gen/Policy dt. 12.05.2022
• No. 2022/W-I/Gen/DPR proforma(E-off:3404238) dt.
02.09.2022
 DECISION TO UNDERTAKE SURVEY
• Normally, Railway Administration have no power
to undertake Surveys on their own.
• It is to be included in the sanctioned Budget .
• However, recently Rly. Board has given powers to
Zonal Rlys (DRMs) to take up surveys (no need of
Prior sanction of survey in budget).

• NOTE: RECT & PECT will be called as feasibility

Study (Rly. Bd. letter No. 2021/W-I/Gen/Gati
Shakti dt. 27.07.2022)
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE PROPOSED ROUTE

Safety:
 The available passenger and goods traffic should be
transported safely
 Route should be so laid as to have minimum chances of
train accidents

Speed:
 Route should be so selected as to have reasonable speed
of trains.

Cost:
 Should be minimum , is composed of:
{capital cost of the project + maintenance cost + renewal
expenditure + working expenses}
 TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)
• Category of line including type of rolling stock to run
• Speed, ruling gradient, curvature
• ROB/RUB, LCs
• Station types, layouts, other traffic facilities
• Signalling systems
• Electrification or otherwise
• Nature and scope of investigations
 RECT
RECONNAISSANCE ENGINEERING
CUM
TRAFFIC SURVEYS
 RECT
 Rough and rapid investigations of an area: using
contoured Survey of India maps and other available material
without a much careful investigation of the field with a view
• to determine the technical feasibility and
• approximate cost of one or more routes

 Can use
• Instruments that will rapidly give approx., distances and
heights such as prismatic compass, similar instruments.
• Aerial photographs
• LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)
 RECT

 Feasibility Report to be prepared.

• It should contain a recommendation from the financial point
of view whether to undertake further investigation.
• It should be accompanied by an estimate (Abstract
Estimate)
• Standard format of report is given in Para E-555.
 PECT
PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING
CUM
TRAFFIC SURVEYS
 PECT
Preliminary Survey
• consists of a detailed instrumental examination of the route
/ or routes selected as a result of "Reconnaissance"
• to obtain a close estimate of the probable cost of the projected
line.
• However, staking out of the alignment with a theodolite is not
required
 Prepare
• Estimate - as close as Detailed Estimate for Final Location
Survey (Para:E-415 & 416)
• Report - (Techno-Economic Survey Reports) based on PECT
(Para:E-555)
 PREPARATION OF RECT & PECT
SURVEYS REPORT

• Survey Reports based on PECT (earlier called Techno-

Economic Survey Report) and Survey report based on
RECT (earlier called feasibility report) may be compiled as
given in E- Para 555.

• Now both RECT /PECT will be called as Feasibility Study.

 FEASIBILITY STUDY (RECT/PECT)
Feasibility Study: Study where detailed investigations are
not carried out and cost estimation are also approximate
are termed as "Feasibility Studies".

Why undertake a Feasibility Study?

 Determine whether, and under what conditions, a project
will be technically, financially and economically viable.
 Demonstrate to potential development factors to produce
acceptable commercial rate of return (i.e. it is both
technically and financially viable)
 Demonstrate to Governments and to other stakeholders
that project will achieve acceptable social and economic,
rate of return
 FEASIBILITY STUDY
Based on desk studies, exploring different alternative
routes on google earth or Quantm Software.
Extract contours from SRTM data, developing Plan &
Profiles of the alignment in AutoCAD and superimposing
the alternative alignments on Google Earth/Top sheets.
Site visit to examine technical feasibility to select best
SCOPE suitable feasible alignment.
for
Feasibility Finalize the salient features and terms of reference.
Studies Standards of constructions for the Rail Connectivity.

Preparation of Plans, L-section and Cross sections.

Description of the proposed alignment.

Study selected routes and work out the abstract
estimates to know the project cost.
Preparation of Feasibility Study Report.
 EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE ALIGNMENTS
Studying alternatives using Toposheets/ Google
Earth/ SRTM(Shuttle Radar Topography Mission.)

Refinement of various alternative alignments using

Quantum software based on block estimate

Comparative Tables enlisting all-important

parameters, viz. engineering, hydrological,
environmental, social, etc.

Selected alignment is then designed precisely

based on engineering parameters.

Validation of final alignment through actual site visit.

CONTOUR EXTRACTION OF GLOBAL MAPPER
 CRITERIA ON WHICH DECISION MATRIX
IS BEING FORMULATED

Topography Geometry Structural Hydraulic Social Economic

• Hilly, • Horizontal • Length of • Cross • Existing/ • Construction

• Rolling, & Vertical Viaduct, Drainage Greenfield cost
• Plain, etc. • Length, • Length of Structures, Land, • Operating &
• No. of Tunnel, • Major, • Habitation Maintenance
curves, • ROB, Minor • Obligatory cost,
• Curve • RUB, Bridges, zones such • Budget
Length, • Bridges • Waterway, as forest, • IRR, EIRR,
• Grade, etc. HFL, etc. wildlife, etc.
etc.
 CASE STUDY
The alignment which gives best results and which is techno-
economically most feasible is chosen.

3 Alternatives Explored Red Alternative Finalized

COMPARATIVE TABLE
 DELIVERABLES
 Alternative Alignment Plan
 Key Map
 Station Yard Plan (Schematic)
 Typical Drawings (Cutting & Banking)
 Plan and Profile
 Feasibility report
 Alternative Alignment Plan
The alternative alignment plan should include the following-

 All alternative alignments in

different colour.

 Major existing and proposed

roads and railway lines.
 All major cities and towns.
 Rivers and Dams.
 Forests, defense lands, etc.
 Key Map (Scale - 1:2,50,000)
The Key Map should include the following-

 The location of the alignment

with respect to important and
the existing means of
communication.
 Existing Station locations
 Major Roads and Railway
lines.
 Major Rivers and Dams
Plan and Profile
Station Yard Plan (Schematic)

A Typical Station Yard Plan is shown below-

Typical Drawings (Cutting & Banking)
Typical Drawing of cutting and banking is shown below-
 FLS
(FINAL LOCATION SURVEY)
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
• Post investment decision Survey
• To prepare working details with accurate costing.
• RECT or PECT Survey reports are available for
reference.
• However in few cases Railway Board may direct to carry
out FLS directly. In such cases guidelines given for
RECT/PECT surveys should also be kept in view.
• Alignment finally selected during a survey should be fully
staked on the ground with a theodolite and/or Electronic
Distance Measuring Instruments, the report should be
fuller and detailed plans and sections should be submitted.
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
• Follow - Terms of Reference strictly.
• Select - Most economical alignment proposed in RECT/
PECT survey reports.
• Provide - Alignment on ground with good instrument like
Electronic Total station.
o Pegs at 20 m interval and large pegs (duly numbered) at every 100 m
(Para:E-427)
o Masonry pillars at 500 m intervals, and at tangent point of curves,
crossings, bridges/tunnels etc.
o Transition curves for change of curvature.
o Bench marks at every km. along the line (near the toe of proposed
bank) and at sites of major bridges, ROB/RUB etc. Temporary Bench
marks should be put up at suitable intervals taking fly levels from
nearest GTS.
 ACTIVITIES IN RECT /PECT/FLS
S. TYPE OF DETAIL OF ACTIVITY RECT PECT FLS
N. ACTIVITY SURVEY SURVEY

ENGINEERING CODE:CHAPTER IV Para 401 Para 408 Para 420

to 407 to 419 to 474

1 Field 1. Collection of revenue rates. Y Y Y

Work 2. Colle/tion of elect./telephone Crossing Y Y Y
details.
3. Collection of U/G cable details. Y Y Y
4. Quick soil investigation details. Y Y N
5. Compass survey for one or more route. N Y N
6. Collection of longitudinal and transvers
levels to prepare “predicted section” N Y Y
7. Geological mapping N Y N
8. Soil sampling at suitable intervals N Y Y
9. Geophysical survey in rocky terrain. N Y Y
10. Stone / CC pillars or other permanent
marks to be left on ground indicated on the N Y Y
plans
 ACTIVITIES IN RECT /PECT/FLS
S. TYPE OF DETAIL OF ACTIVITY RECT PECT FLS
N. ACTIVITY SURVEY SURVEY

1 Field 11. Soil Surveying by photo interpretation N Y N

Work of remotely sensed data.
12. Fixing of BM/TBM Pillars. N Y Y
13. Central Line pillars on bridge
approaches, Imp. Road crossings, N Y Y
Tunnel and stations etc.
14. Bench mark near important bridges, N Y Y
road crossings and tunnels etc.
I. Marking locations of centre line N Y Y
pillars and bench mark pillars on
index plan. N N Y
II. Close traverse around/nearby
expected alignment by theodolite N N Y
III. Marking of central line by pegs at
every 20 m. N N Y
IV. Fixing large central line pegs at each
100 m.
 ACTIVITIES IN RECT /PECT/FLS
S. TYPE OF DETAIL OF ACTIVITY RECT PECT
N. ACTIVITY SURVEY SURVEY FLS

3 Report 4. Characteristics of the projected area. Y Y Y

5. Standard of construction. Y Y Y
6. Route selection/Project description. Y Y Y
7. Project Engineering, estimate of cost and Y Y N
construction schedule
8. Cost Phasing and investment schedule. N N Y
9. Electrical Chapter. Y Y Y
10. S & T Chapter. Y Y Y
11. Mechanical chapter. Y Y Y
12. Financial Appraisal. Y Y Y
13. Recommendations Y Y N

4 Estimate 1. Preparation of approximate abstract Y Y N

estimate of the cost of project along with (Close to
cost of junction arrangement and details FLS
cost of 1 km p-way work. estimate)
2. Preparation of detailed estimate under N Y
various heads N

5 Covering Covering Notes Y Y N

Notes
 RECENT CHANGES IN POLICY
• RECT & PET will be called as feasibility Study (Rly. Bd.
letter No. 2021/W-I/Gen/Gati Shakti dt. 27.07.2022)
• For all works costing more than Rs. 50 Cr., DPR to be
submitted to Railway Board
• Proforma for preparation & submission of DPR for
NL/GC/DL/Multi Tracking shall be as per Rly. Board ltr. no.
2022/W-I/Gen/DPR proforma (Eoff: 3404238) dt. 02.09.2022

• Instead of ROR (Rate of Return) now EIRR

(Economic Internal Rate of Return) is to be
considered.
 ECONOMIC INTERNAL RATE OF RETURN
Item Cost/Benefits Components to be considered

Capital Cost
Economic
Operations and Maintenance Cost
Cost
Capital Replacement Costs
Travel Time Savings (VOT)
Economic Price conversion coefficient
Vehicle Operating Costs Savings (VOC)
Accident Costs
Infrastructure Maintenance Cost Savings
Economic
Benefits Road Infrastructure Cost Savings
(factoring Employment Generation
network effect)
Emission Costs
Reduction in Fuel and Economic impact
Railway Network Decongestion
Reduction in delayed travelling time (Travel Time Reliability)
Increase in Railway Throughput
THANKS
 Types of Surveys
for Railway Projects
RECT, PECT, FLS
 TYPE OF SURVEYS
Surveys are conducted for NL, GC, DL, Yard re-modellings,
Passenger Terminals
1. RECT
Reconnaissance Engineering cum Traffic
Rapid investigation to give approx. distances & heights
and approximate cost.
2. PECT
Preliminary Engineering cum Traffic
Instrumental survey in order to obtain close estimate.
3. FLS
Final Location Survey
With detailed instrumental survey & Accurate cost.

NOTE: RECT & PET will be called as feasibility Study (Rly. Bd.
letter No. 2021/W-I/Gen/Gati Shakti dt. 27.07.2022)
 WHERE TO REFER
Code for the Engineering Department (Engineering Code)

 Chapter II- Modes of investigation of Railway Project

 Chapter III- Traffic Survey
 Chapter IV- Engineering Survey
 Chapter V- Engineering Survey- Project Reports
 Latest Rly Board letters
• No. 2015//W-I/Gen/Corr. GM/Part 2 dt. 07.10.2020
• No. 2022/W-I/Gen/Policy dt. 12.05.2022
• No. 2022/W-I/Gen/DPR proforma(E-off:3404238) dt.
02.09.2022
 Decision To Undertake Survey
• Normally, Railway Administration have no power
to undertake Surveys on their own.
• It is to be included in the sanctioned Budget. (Blue
Book).
• However, recently Rly. Board has given powers to
Zonal Rlys (DRMs) to take up surveys (no need of
Prior sanction of survey in budget).

• NOTE: RECT & PET will be called as feasibility

Study (Rly. Bd. letter No. 2021/W-I/Gen/Gati
Shakti dt. 27.07.2022)
 Factors influencing the proposed route
Safety:
 The available passenger and goods traffic should be
transported safely
 Route should be so laid as to have minimum chances of
train accidents

Speed:
 Route should be so selected as to have reasonable speed
of trains.

Cost:
 Should be minimum , is composed of:
{capital cost of the project + maintenance cost + renewal
expenditure + working expenses}
 The route should be so selected as to bring the sum of all
these costs to a minimum.
 Terms of Reference (TOR)
• Category of line including type of rolling stock to run
• Speed, ruling gradient, curvature
• ROB/RUB, LCs,
• Station types, layouts, other traffic facilities
• Signalling systems
• Electrification or otherwise
• Nature and scope of investigations
 RECT
(RECONNAISSANCE ENGINEERING
CUM TRAFFIC SURVEYS)
 RECT
 Rough and rapid investigations of an area: using
contoured Survey of India maps and other available material
without a careful investigation of the field with a view
• to determine the technical feasibility and
• approximate cost of one or more routes

 Can use
• instruments that will rapidly give approx., distances and
heights such as prismatic compass, similar instruments.
• Aerial photographs
• LiDAR or Photogrammetry
 RECT
• With the use of only those
instruments that will rapidly give
approximate distances and heights
such as prismatic compass, similar
instruments.

• Where suitable aerial Photographs

are available, field investigations by
instruments can be considerably
avoided/dispensed with
RECT
RECT
 Conventional Drone
Parameter Satellite Imagery LiDAR
Surveying Photogrammetry
DGPS, Total Station,
DGPS, Total
DGPS, Total Auto level,
DGPS, Total Station, Auto level,
Equipment/ Station, Auto level, Drone/terrestrial/
Station, Auto drone camera,
Software Photogrammetry aerial LiDAR
level, AutoCAD Photogrammetry
Req. Software, 3D equipment, LiDAR
2D Software Software, 3D
Computers Cloud data
Computers
Processing Software
Time taken High Moderate/high Moderate Fast

Accuracy Human error Moderate High Higher

Rs.8000 to Rs 5000-7000/sq.
15000 per sq. km for moderate Rs.30000 to 40000 Rs. 50000-60000 per
Estimated km. quality DEM and per Sq. km and Sq. km And
Cost The main cost Rs. 10000-12000/ Rs. 25000/ KM for Rs. 35000-45000/ KM
is for the sq. km for high single swath. for single swath.
manpower quality DEM
 RECT
 Follow - Terms of Reference unless cost is very high.
 Select - shortest possible route.
• station sites considering population, importance of nearest
village/ town/ city/ industry etc.
• best possible sites for stations, crossings and
bridges/tunnels.
 Collect
• latest revenue rates obtained from collector/ Tehsildar/
Registrar/ Land records office – to work out land cost.
• rainfall records of the area and discharge records of big
rivers.
• detail of availability of labour, construction material and
possible route of their movement
 RECT
 Collect
• Electrical crossings details i.e Chainage, Voltage,
Height of lowest conductor, Height of tower, Distance of
tower from centre line, Types of tower (Terminal or
suspension)

• Telephone wire crossings details i.e. Chainage, Height

of the wire, Distance of pole from centre line, Height of
the pole

 Underground cables details i.e. Voltage, Chainage,

Depth, Type of cable, Purpose/function of cable
 RECT

 Carry out
 Quick soil investigation by trail pit at few important
locations for design of foundations etc.
 No laboratory tests
 General Idea through Other Surveys, topological /
geological maps
 Visual Inspection
 Behaviour of existing structures
 Prospective Borrow Area - Soil & Blanket
 RECT
 Provide
 Land width as per paras 821 to 836 of Engg. code
 Waterways, span/foundation type and arrangement,
based on the data collected.
 ROBs / RUBs on State /National Highways.
 Blanketing material as per the extant instructions.
 Sub banks on high banks of over 6 m height.
 50 m. minimum length of straight between reverse
curves.
 RECT

 Avoid :
• acquisition of fertile land/ forest area/ wild life sanctuaries
• cuttings and tunnels on curves
• sags in cuttings
• sharp change of gradient on curves
• stations on curves
 RECT
 Prepare - following maps/plans
(i) General Map: Scale about 20/25 km = 1 cm
(ii) Index Map : Scale about 2.5 km = 1 cm
(iii) Index Plan : Scale about 500 m = 1 cm
& sections (Horizontal, on topo sheet)
Scale about 10 m = 1 cm
(Vertical)
(iv) Station yard diagrams and junction
arrangements. (Generally in A4 size)
 RECT

• Feasibility Report to be prepared .

• It should contain a recommendation from the financial point
of view whether to undertake further investigation.
• It should be accompanied by an estimate (Abstract
Estimate)
• Standard format of report is given in Para E-555.
 PECT
(PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING CUM
TRAFFIC SURVEYS)
 PECT
Preliminary Survey
• consists of a detailed instrumental examination of the
route / or routes selected as a result of
"Reconnaissance"
• to obtain a close estimate of the probable cost of the
projected line.
• However, staking out of the alignment with a theodolite is
not required
 PECT

In addition to the items covered for RECT,

additional guidelines are to be followed
 PECT
 Soil Survey/Investigation
 Geological investigation / Survey in hilly terrain.
 Sampling at about 500 m interval
 May be for alternative alignments too
 Sub-surface soundings
 Auger Sampling normally, SPT may be done.
 Normally no undisturbed samples
 Bore log from disturbed samples
 Split spoon sampler
 Mechanical Analysis & Index Properties
 PECT

 Carry out
 Traversing of one or more routes. Stone Pillars to be
left on ground at suitable intervals and important
locations.
 Level (Longitudinal and cross) on important locations
at suitable intervals on the route. TBMs to be left at
suitable intervals and important locations.
 Plane Table survey for station yards and rivers on
U/S and D/S side of proposed bridge upto sufficient
distance.
 PECT

 Prepare
• Maps/Plans- additional plans as for RECT survey -
 Detailed plan and section (as for FLS with details
collected in PECT survey)
• Scale: 50 m to 1 cm (Horizontal)
• 5 m to 1 cm (Vertical)
• (5 Km line on each sheet with plan above the
section on the same sheet)
 PECT

 Prepare
 Estimate- as close as Detailed Estimate for Final
Location Survey (Para:E-415 & 416)

 Report- (Techno-Economic Survey Reports) based on

PECT (Para:E-555)
 PREPARATION OF RECT & PECT
SURVEYS REPORT

• Survey Reports based on PECT (also called

Techno-Economic Survey Report) and Survey
report based on RECT (also called feasibility
report) may be compiled as given in E- Para 555.
 PREPARATION OF RECT & PECT
SURVEYS REPORT
• Introduction (Para E-557)

• Traffic projections (Para E-558 to 561)

• Analysis of Alternatives (Para E-562)

• Characteristics of the project area (Para E-507)

• Standard of construction (Para E-508 to 522)

• Route selection/Project description (Para E-523)

 PREPARATION OF RECT & PECT
SURVEYS REPORT
• Project engineering, estimation of cost and
construction schedule. (Para E-525 to 538)

• Cost Phasing and investment schedule (Para E-542 &

543)

• Electrical chapter

• S & T chapter

• Mechanical chapter

• Financial Appraisal (Para E-575)

• Recommendations
CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION
• OBJECT OF INVESTIGATION AND BACKGROUND
• Object of Investigation
• History of past investigation
• Govt. order for carrying out investigation

• PROGRAMME AND METHODOLOGY OF INVESTIGATION

• Organisation for investigation, ( studies made, work
accomplished during the field season in brief narrative form.)
• Method adopted for selection of major obligatory points.
• Selection of alignment
• Choice of design of important river crossing
• Important station sites

• SPECIAL FEATURES :- If any ,like investigation of various

alternatives for a major river crossings, difficult hilly terrains,
marshy areas requiring special stabilization studies.
 CHAPTER II TRAFFIC PROJECTIONS
To provide focus to obtain a clear prospective of the scheme.

• TRAFFIC PROJECTION- a commodity wise analysis of traffic

growth for 30 years @ 5 years

• ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CAPACITY - Analysis with

reference to master charts for doublings, occupation charts of
platform lines, washing /stabling lines etc.

• OPTIMISATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES - Possibility of

improving the line capacity with improved signalling, higher
speeds, heavier/longer trains, change of traction etc. for
doubling gauge conversions etc. For terminal facilities
reducing servicing time of rakes, occupation of platforms etc.
and for new lines, if existing transport can meet the
requirements.
CHAPTER III ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

• ALTERNATIVE SCHEMES - with approx cost, normal time

for execution
• COMPARISION OF SCHEMES - with merits/demerits and
other considerations
• FINANCIAL RETURNS - Financial Returns of important
Schemes
CHAPTER –IV CHARACTERISTICS OF PROJECT AREA

• TOPOGRAPHICAL OUTLINE OF THE AREA :-

• GEOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE COUNTRY likely to
affect the alignment Stability of line, cost of construction
working expenses
• CLIMATIC AND RAINFALL CHARACTERISTICS
• ENVIRONMENTAL CHARACTERISTICS like presence of
corrosive factors, pollution, etc. which may affect the
design and maintenance of bridges and structures.
• PLANNING OF OTHER AGENCIES FOR IMPOUNDING
RIVERS IN PROJECT AREA IF ANY
CHAPTER –IV
• EXISTING MEANS OF COMMUNICATION
• OUTLINE OF CIVIL ADMINISTRATION OF THE AREA.
• INTERFERENCE IN THE CHOSEN ALIGNMENT :-
extent to which railway works would interfere with existing
Military cantonment, buildings, rifle ranges, camping
grounds, etc. Opinion of local Military authorities and
how their objection can be best met with.
CHAPTER –V STANDARD OF CONSTRUCTION
(Terms of reference on which cost of Project is based)
• GAUGE
• CATEGORY OF LINE :- speed potential, maximum Axle Load ,
Loading Standard of Bridges and basis for adopting the same.
• RULING GRADIENT ,maximum length and Tonnage of goods train
catered for
• CURVES :- sharpest adopted, basis for adoption and its Impact
on the speed.
• P.WAY :- Rail section, welding proposed, sleepers and its
density.
• BALLAST :- Type of ballast and Cushion .
• ROAD CROSSING :- Standards adopted for Level crossings &
grade separated crossings.
CHAPTER –V STANDARD OF CONSTRUCTION

• STATIONS :- Spacing of stations in case of new lines, provision made

for future intermediate stations and scale of facilities contemplated at
stations.
• RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION :- The scale and extent to which
included.
• STATION MACHINERY:- Brief indication of Engine changing
arrangement watering stations and water supply augmentation
arrangements
• SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE FACILITY :- like repairs shop etc.
• SIGNALLING AND TELECOM:- Standard of Signalling and scale of
communication facilities.
• TRACTION :- Type of traction proposed .
CHAPTER VI
ROUTE SELECTION/PROJECT DESCRIPTION
For new lines, doublings and gauge conversions this chapter shall be
‘ROUTE SELECTION’ presented as under
• VARIOUS ALTERNATIVE ROUTES :- relevant information and
data of routes examined
• GENERAL DESCRIPTIONS OF EACH ALIGNMENT SURVEYED :-
fixed point or zero point, selection of junction and other stations
on the alignment, short descriptions of river crossings.
• ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES:- of various alignment,
reasons for selecting the final alignment.
• TOTAL LENGTH OF ROUTE SELECTED:- Length in every State,
Division and District and length of sections proposed (for
estimating purposes)
CHAPTER VI
ROUTE SELECTION/PROJECT DESCRIPTION
• EXTENSIONS:- Branches and other extensions of the proposed
lines which are likely to be needed in the near or distant future.
• SITE - Availability of land, use patterns, suitability of site for
future needs.
• ENVIRONMENT - Climatic conditions, rainfall characteristics,
pollution etc. communication facilities, availability of water
activities/settlements nearby.
• FACILITIES TO BE PROVIDED – User department-wise facilities
to be provided.
• EQUIPMENTs AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS:-
Equipments provided under scheme and required during
construction.
CHAPTER VI
ROUTE SELECTION/PROJECT DESCRIPTION

• LABOUR AND MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS :

organisational structure envisaged for execution, staff to
operate facilities after commissioning the project and
facilities such as housing etc. required for such staff.
(tabulated details in Appendix)
• SPECIAL PROBLEMS ; problems likely to be faced during
construction such as in land acquisition, movement of
materials, foundation , housing etc. (Risk management)
CHAPTER VII
PROJECT ENGINEERING (Related to Project
Management; scope including methods, specification,
organization and problems/obstructions/uncertainties)

PROJECT ENGINEERING :-
• Information and data to understand the scope and
extent of project and assist in formulating strategy for
execution and management
• Information under each main head of the estimate of
cost be furnished with rates, and their basis
CHAPTER VII

• PRELIMINARY EXPENSES :- Cost of surveys already

carried out and proposed for future be given.

• LAND :- Width of land provided for single or double

line, difficulties in acquiring the land, due to important
buildings, religious/archeological; structures, Military
rights, other special causes, (rates of land obtained from
Civil Authorities as Appendix, tabulated details in
Appendix)
CHAPTER VII
• FORMATION :-
• formation width and side slopes in banks and cuttings
• method of construction of earth work, compaction,
blanketing material, provision of sub bank
• supporting information on soil investigation and results of
core drilling wherever necessary
• provision for turfing or other protection for banks and
cuttings and for repairing them and for topping banks with
selected material
• sections of tunnels, retaining walls, side drains etc.
• Discrepancies in BMs of various departments to be
indicated, if any
CHAPTER VII

• BRIDGES:- List of various types of Bridges,(tabulated

details in Appendix) difficulties expected, special methods
and materials proposed for contsruction, special
arrangements for strengthening of existing bridges, for
GC, extension of existing bridges

• Method of transporting of girder components,

arrangements for erection and launching of girders
CHAPTER VII

• P. WAY :-
 Possible location of Stores Depots with problems to be
encountered if any

 Nature of ballast, source of supply quantity per metre

provided

 Minimum distance provided between reverse curves

and method for laying out transition curves and vertical
curves
CHAPTER VII

STATIONS, BUILDINGS, RESIDENITAL QUARTERS ;-

• Scale of facilities provided at various stations, any special
architectural treatment that may be needed in the case of
important buildings.
• Location of administrative and other offices, residential
quarters, institutes etc.

STATION MACHINARY :-
• Running sheds and workshop facilities
• Watering arrangements
• Sand humps, derailing switch, fouling marks etc.
• Signaling and interlocking
• Others: (tabulated details in Appendix)
CHAPTER VII

• ROAD CROSSINGS : type of Level crossing planned

with diversion of roads contemplated if any, difficulties
likely to be encountered in the execution of grade
separated road crossings. (tabulated details in Appendix)

• EQUIPMENTS :- separately for:

• Signaling
• Communications including telegraphs, train control and
microwave etc;
• Electrification of stations.
• Electric traction if proposed.
CHAPTER VII

• ROLLING STOCK : Whether provided in the cost,

-If yes, full particulars regarding the number and type of
engines and other rolling stock

• SPECIAL PROBLEMS :
 Special problems likely to be encountered during
execution with possible solutions
 Areas needing special attention
CHAPTER VII

• PROJECT ORGANISATION:
• Organisational structure required for execution
• Proposed headquarters of the project manager and other
const officers
• Plans for providing housing for staff , temporary office
buildings. (tabulated details in Appendix)
• Availability of water for construction and its suitability for
drinking purposes

• RATE ANALYSIS : (to be given in Appendix)

• An analysis of principal rates and reasons for adopting
the same in the estimation of cost for girders or steel
works rates per span and per tonne
CHAPTER VII

• STATISTICAL INFORMATION(E-539):
• For purpose of comparison and for the benefit of top
management
• Land rate per hectare
• Earthwork in banks rate per 10 m3
Earthwork in cuttings overall average rate per
10 m3
• Lined tunnels – rate per metre length
• Unlined tunnels – rate per metre length
• Major bridges - rate per metre length
• Minor bridges – rate per metre length
• Track (rails, sleepers and fastenings) laid in position –
cost per km
• CHAPTER VII
• STATISTICAL INFORMATION(E-539):
• Main line - cost per km.
• Running loops – cost per km.
• Sidings – cost per km.
• Points and crossings per set.
• Ballast cost (laid in track per km.)
• Service buildings – cost per sq. metre.
• Staff quarters - cost per sq. metre
• Total cost of signalling per crossing station of 2 and 3
lines.
CHAPTER VII

• ESTIMATION OF COST
• Methodology adopted in computation of quantities for
earthwork, bridges and buildings.

• INVESTMENT SCHEDULE:-Target and schedule for

various years of construction/phases
CHAPTER VII

• TABULATED DETAILS (E-544):

• Curve abstract (Form E-547) (along with details of
curves)
• Gradient abstract (Form E-548) (along with list of
gradients)
• Bridge abstract (Form E-549)(along with list of major,
minor and ROB/RUB bridges)
• Important bridges (Form E-550)
• Station Machinery (Form E-551)
• Station and station sites (Form E-552)
 CHAPTER VII
 TABULATED DETAILS (E-544):
• List of Electrical telephone wire and
• Underground cable crossings
• List of level crossings
• Details of land to be acquired if any, (chainage wise)
• List of Structures to be dismantled
• List of staff required, department wise
• List of quarters provided.
• List of Signal/Sign Boards posts etc,
• List of GTS benchmarks.
CHAPTER VIII
• COST ,PHASING AND INVESTMENT SCHEDULE GUIDE

• COST :- Cost of the project department wise and

methodology adopted to arrive at

• PHASING :- If phasing required during construction, extent,

type with reasons and investment levels for such phasing

• INVESTMENT SCHEDULE :- completion period and

department wise annual investment during this period
CHAPTER IX- ELECTRICAL CHAPTER

To be given by Electrical department (in Hq)

CHAPTER X- SIGNAL AND TELECOMMUNICATION CHAPTER

To be given by S & T department (in Hq)

CHAPTER XI- MECHANICAL CHAPTER

To be given by Mechanical department (in Hq)

CHAPTER XII- FINANCIAL APPRAISAL

Financial appraisal of various alternative schemes

examined. Presented by Finance department (in HQ).

CHAPTER XIII- RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion and recommendations with cost and Rate Of

Return (in HQ).
 COVERING NOTE

 Object of proposed survey and circumstances leading to it

 Past performance, present status of traffic movements and
future projections
 Salient features of proposed scheme
 Cost and investment pattern
 If any estimate submitted earlier, comparison therewith
 Explanation for any material modifications as compared to
earlier sanctioned estimate
 Summary of financial appraial and brief description of benefits
that will accrue from the scheme
 Recommendations of the Railway
 ARRANGEMENT OF DOCUMENTS:

• Covering note
• Index
• Project report, followed by ‘List of Drawings’
• Appendices to Project report
 FLS
(FINAL LOCATION SURVEY)
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
• Post investment decision Survey
• To prepare working details with accurate costing.
• RECT or PECT Survey reports are available for
reference.
• However in few cases Railway Board may direct to carry
out FLS directly. In such cases guidelines given for
RECT/PECT surveys should also be kept in view.
• Alignment finally selected during a survey should be fully
staked on the ground with a theodolite and/or Electronic
Distance Measuring Instruments, the report should be
fuller and detailed plans and sections should be submitted.
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
• Follow - Terms of Reference strictly.
• Select - Most economical alignment proposed in RECT/
PECT survey reports.
• Provide - Alignment on ground with good instrument like
Electronic Total station.
 Pegs at 20 m interval and large pegs (duly numbered) at
every 100 m (Para:E-427)
 Masonry pillars at 500 m intervals, and at tangent point of
curves, crossings, bridges/tunnels etc.
 Transition curves for change of curvature.
 Bench marks at every km. along the line (near the toe of
proposed bank) and at sites of major bridges, ROB/RUB etc.
Temporary Bench marks should be put up at suitable
intervals taking fly levels from nearest GTS.
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
SOIL SURVEY

• Sampling at about 200 - 300 m interval. Bore holes to be

drilled (upto 20 m depth in soils other than rock and 5 m
in rock)
• Detailed Investigations – May be at very close intervals
particularly at
• Bad Soil Locations
• Location of Important Structures
– Major Bridges
– High Banks
– Deep Cuttings
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
SOIL SURVEY
• Undisturbed Soil Samples
• Engineering Geologist may be hired, if needed in hilly
areas. Assistance of an officer of Geological Survey of
India may be sought.
• Water table Data and seasonal variations
• Additional tests like shear strengths, consolidation,
vane shear, free swell etc.
• Sources of Soil and Blanket Material
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)

• Carry out :
• Plane table survey of station Yards (Para:E-231) and
rivers requiring waterway of 110 sqm or more on U/S
and D/S side (para E-224 & 225).
• Geological characteristics investigation for stability of
line, slopes, tunnels etc. in hilly terrain.
• Levels at 50 m intervals (longitudinal) and 20 m
intervals (cross). Intervals can be reduced depending
upon the undulations on the ground.
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
• Collect
Information about Railway affecting works in the vicinity of
projected line i.e. bunds, bunded streams, irrigation works
(para:E-424).

• Prepare
Notes in the field regarding ground and other information
derived from personal enquiry and observation. (Para:E-
250)
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
Plans/Sections
• General Map - scale 25/20 km to 1 cm.
• Index Map - scale 2.5 km to 1 cm.
• Index Plan and section scale
500 m to 1 cm (Horizonatal)
10 m to 1 cm (Vertical)
• Detailed plans and section scale
50 m to 1 cm(Horizontal)
5 m to 1 cm (Vertical)

(The plan in each case to be above the section on the

same sheet. Details of all features within 300 m on
either side to be shown on the plan)
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)

Details to be shown in plan (E454)

• Rivers requiring waterway of 12m or upwards
• Important roads with heir bridges
• Canals, Large tanks, bunds, bunded streams
• Outlines of all towns / villages
• Boundaries of states, Local administration, Districts
• Hill peaks and important features of country
• Survey of India stations
• Camping grounds, Rifle ranges
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)

• Reserve forest
• Industrial Units( Existing/ Under construction)
• Plans of station yards and junction arrangements, scale
10 m to 1 cm (Para:E-468, 469, 471)
• Detailed drawings of structures (Para:E-473 & 474)
• Additional details in plan to be shown within 300 m on
either side of the line (Para:E-454)
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)
• Report based on Final location Survey is called
Project report.

Report under following chapters :

 Introduction
 Characteristics of the project area.
 Standards of constructions
 Route selection.
 Project Engineering, estimation of cost and
construction schedule.
 Conclusion and recommendations
(for details refer Para E-502 to 552).
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)

Report to be accompanied by
 Curve abstract (Form:E-547)
 Gradient abstract (Form :E-548)
 Bridge Abstract (Form :E-549)
 Important bridges (Form:E-550)
 Station Machinery (Form:E-551)
 Stations and Station sites (Form:E-552
 FINAL LOCATION SURVEY (FLS)

Detailed Estimate

Giving Details of the cost of construction under various

heads of capital and other works expenditure classification
(Para:E-553 Detailed Estimate to be submitted to Dy. CE
(C) Plg.)
 Other Important aspects
• Desirable to involve local people while carrying out FLS
• Land width demarcation
• Scrutinize Section register and Bridge registers in Doubling
and GC surveys
• Take photographs of existing Bridges, deep cuttings and
high banks
• Vediography of whole section in GC & doubling
• Desirable to use few standard spans
• Existing waterways should not be obstructed
• Avoid level crossings even in Doubling & GC
• Bridges & tunnels in straight
• Problems likely to be encountered and possible solutions, if
any
 PREPARATION OF PROJECT REPORT (FOR
FINAL LOCATION SURVEY)
The project report should comprise of the following chapters.
• Introduction
• Characteristics of project area
• Standards of construction.
• Route selection
• Project engg, estimation of cost and construction schedule
• Electrical chapter
• S & t chapter
• Mechanical chapter
• Conclusions and recommendations.
• Financial appraisal

The contents of the above chapters are already given in the

chapters for Survey reports for RECT/PECT surveys. The same
may be followed for Project report for Final Location Surveys.
THANKS