PERFORMANCE MODELLING OF FLEXIBLE RURAL ROAD PAVEMENTS IN MYANMAR

The study aims to determine the factors influencing rural road pavement conditions in Myanmar to improve maintenance and extend pavement lifespan. This paper calculates the visual pavement condition index (VCI) using guidelines for the visual assessment of road pavement and develops a performance model for flexible rural pavements using regression analysis. Visual inspections indicated that ravelling, potholes, edge drops, and bleeding were the most common distresses, highlighting the need for targeted maintenance, especially for severe distress problems. The findings indicate that the positive correlation between pavement condition and construction quality can be statistically explained by the multiple linear regression model. In contrast, pavement condition was negatively affected by factors such as ravelling, edge drop, bleeding, potholes, and pavement age. This study helps authorities allocate resources to reduce poverty and achieve Myanmar's development objectives. Rural road networks may benefit from evidence-based pavement management, enhancing socioeconomic development and community well-being.