ENGINEERING SOLUTIONS FOR THE MODERNIZATION OF HIGHWAY DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

Abstract

Highway drainage systems are critical to pavement durability, embankment stability, hydraulic safety, and network reliability. In many existing road corridors, drainage infrastructure is under pressure from aging assets, increased runoff intensity, changing land use, and higher performance expectations. This paper provides a structured review of engineering solutions for the modernization of highway drainage systems, with emphasis on hydraulic upgrades, subsurface drainage improvement, sustainable drainage systems, permeable pavement applications, and digital asset-management tools. The review is based on official technical guidance and selected peer-reviewed studies. The results show that effective modernization should not be limited to enlarging pipes or replacing culverts; it should integrate conveyance, storage, infiltration, subgrade moisture control, inspection, and risk-based maintenance. The paper proposes an integrated engineering framework for selecting drainage modernization strategies and discusses its relevance for highway agencies operating under climate stress, maintenance backlogs, and life-cycle performance requirements.