CE-404 Transportation Engineering-I - Jun 2025 Question Paper

Under each question, How to answer lists the points an answer should cover, outlined by CampusPrep from the syllabus. Check the details against your textbook.

1. 7 Marks
   aDefine hauling capacity and tractive effort. Derive the formula for tractive effort and explain the factors affecting it.
   How to answer

   • Define hauling capacity and tractive effort
   • Derive expression for tractive effort
   • List factors affecting tractive effort e.g. load, gradient, curvature, friction, speed
   • Explain influence of each factor
2. 7 Marks
   bWrite a note on the following rail fastenings:

   1. i)Fish plates
   2. ii)Bearing plates
   3. iii)Spikes
   4. iv)Chain keys
   How to answer

   • Define purpose of rail fastenings
   • Note on fish plates - function and fixing
   • Note on bearing plates - function
   • Note on spikes and chain keys - types and use
3. 7 Marks
   aWhat are the requirements of good ballast? Discuss the different materials used as ballast and their comparative performance.
   How to answer

   • List requirements of good ballast - strength, durability, drainage, stability
   • List materials used as ballast - stone, gravel, slag, sand, etc.
   • Compare performance on strength, drainage, cost, availability
   • Conclude suitable choice
4. 7 Marks
   bWhat is Super elevation? Derive the formula for equilibrium cant and explain the concept of cant deficiency.
   How to answer

   • Define super elevation / cant
   • Derive equilibrium cant formula $e = GV^2/127R$
   • Explain cant deficiency and excess
   • State permissible limits and effects
5. 7 Marks
   aExplain the types of horizontal curves used in railway design. How does curve radius affect train speed and safety?
   How to answer

   • List types of horizontal curves - simple, compound, reverse, transition
   • Explain each type with use in railway
   • Explain effect of radius on speed, centrifugal force, safety
   • Relate to cant and speed restrictions
6. 7 Marks
   bDescribe the layout and working of a typical mechanical interlocking system. How does it differ from electrical interlocking?
   How to answer

   • Describe layout of mechanical interlocking - levers, rods, locking frame
   • Explain working - sequential operation and locking
   • Differentiate from electrical interlocking on operation, speed, maintenance
   • Give advantages/limitations
7. 7 Marks
   aDescribe the procedure for estimating score depth for a bridge foundation. Why is it critical in bridge safety?
   How to answer

   • Define scour depth and its relevance
   • Outline procedure for estimating scour - discharge, silt factor, Lacey formula
   • Explain criticality for foundation depth and bridge safety
   • Mention preventive measures
8. 7 Marks
   bDiscuss Indian loading standards for railway and highway bridges as per relevant codes.
   How to answer

   • State relevant IRC / IRS codes for loading
   • Describe railway loadings - EUDL, axle loads
   • Describe highway loadings - IRC Class A, AA, 70R
   • Compare application for design
9. 7 Marks
   aExplain various types of flooring systems used in bridges. How is the choice made depending on traffic and site conditions?
   How to answer

   • List flooring systems - RCC slab, steel trough, timber, composite
   • Explain construction and load transfer of each
   • Discuss selection criteria - traffic type, span, site conditions
   • Give suitability examples
10. 7 Marks
    bWhat are coffer dams? Describe their types and usage in underwater bridge construction.
    How to answer

    • Define coffer dam and its purpose
    • Describe types - earthen, rockfill, single/double wall, cellular
    • Explain usage in underwater construction - dewatering, working space
    • Mention selection and safety aspects
11. 7 Marks
    aExplain the construction procedure for underwater bridge foundations. What materials and methods are commonly used?
    How to answer

    • Outline steps - site investigation, coffer dam/caisson, dewatering, concreting
    • List materials - concrete, steel, sheet piles
    • List methods - open excavation, caisson, well foundation
    • Mention underwater concreting techniques
12. 7 Marks
    bWhat are the different types of inspections conducted during and after bridge construction? Discuss the importance of data collection in bridge maintenance.
    How to answer

    • List inspections - routine, detailed, special, post-construction
    • Describe checks during and after construction
    • Explain importance of data collection for maintenance planning
    • Mention records and monitoring
13. 7 Marks
    aWhat are tunnel shafts and pilot shafts? Describe their purpose and construction in tunnel projects.
    How to answer

    • Define tunnel shafts and pilot shafts
    • Explain purpose - ventilation, muck removal, survey, access
    • Describe construction sequence
    • Mention safety and support aspects
14. 7 Marks
    bWhy is drainage important in tunnel construction? Describe the methods used for drainage and ventilation in tunnels.
    How to answer

    • Explain need for drainage - stability, seepage control
    • Describe drainage methods - side drains, pumping, grouting
    • Describe ventilation methods - natural, mechanical
    • Relate to safety and durability
15. 14 Marks
    Explain any two of the following:

    1. i)Construction of tunnels in soft soil, hard soil and rock.
    2. ii)Types of signals in stations and yards.
    3. iii)Bridge super structure and sub-structure
    4. iv)Strengthening of bridges
    How to answer

    • Select any two topics for detailed explanation
    • Give definition, types/methods and steps for each
    • Include sketches/flow and applications
    • Mention advantages and precautions