Assessment of Pavement Surface Distresses and Development of Pavement Condition Index from School of Remedial Studies Junction – Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Gate Road, Makurdi, Benue State
1,Jirgba, K., 2Tyogo, M., and 3Orshio, T.C..
1,2,3Department of Civil Engineering, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Benue State.
DOI: 10.36108/laujoces/6202.71.0121
Abstract
This study assesses the pavement condition of the School of Remedial Studies (SRS) Junction–Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi (JOSTUM gate Road using the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) methodology (ASTM D6433-07). The objective was to classify pavement sections based on PCI scores and recommend maintenance strategies. Surface distresses such as cracking, potholes, rutting, and shoving were surveyed and categorized by severity. The results reveal varying PCI scores across 66 road segments. Segments rated as Good (PCI > 80) were found between 4000–4100 m and 6500–6572 m, requiring minimal maintenance. Poor and Very Poor conditions (PCI 25–54) dominated the roadway, including critical segments such as 0–100 m (PCI 45) and 200–300 m (PCI 25). Failed segments (PCI < 10) were identified from 5300–5900 m, necessitating urgent reconstruction. Overall, the findings highlight significant structural distress due to high traffic loads and inadequate maintenance. Timely and total rehabilitation of flexible road pavement on the SRS-JOSTUM road is recommended since over 72% of the road network is at deplorable state; the prompt rehabilitation of the worse segments (having the least % for fair and above conditions) should be given priority. Also, the patching of potholes at this stage of deterioration is essential to prevent further damages and thereby reducing cost of rehabilitation in the future.
Keywords: Flexible road pavement, Pavement Condition Index (PCI), maintenance strategies, surface distress, pavement rehabilitation, deduct values.