An Analytical Study On Construction Equipment Utilization And Its Influence On Highway Project Performance

Abstract

A key factor in determining the success of major highway infrastructure projects is the effective use of construction equipment. Using Package-I (Km 0+000 to 38+775) of the NH-561A rehabilitation and upgrade project in Maharashtra as a case study, this study investigated the function of equipment deployment and its effect on project performance. Key performance indicators such as equipment usage patterns, idle time, breakdown frequency, cost variations, and schedule adherence were examined by the research using a combination of primary data (surveys, interviews, and site observations) and secondary data (project progress reports, equipment logs). The results showed that inefficient equipment, especially in bitumen pavers and dumpers, caused to delays and higher operating expenses. On the other hand, machinery such as excavators and batching plants that were properly maintained and used increased total production. The study found that, in order to improve project outcomes in highway building under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), strategic planning, routine maintenance, operator training, and real-time monitoring of construction machinery are crucial.