Initially efforts were made to prepare design of link roads. The aim was to start the reconstruction activities of roads in various parts of earthquake affected districts which helps to build confidence of people and their representatives on the reconstruction efforts of Government of Pakistan. Later on, after their completion design of major roads were started.

The terrain of the project area is mostly hilly having continuously rising grade ranging up to 25%. Its improvement was made either by bed cutting or by providing relief gradient at appropriate locations. Similarly the horizontal geometry was quite tough having sharp bends where even small jeeps cannot traverse without stopping and reversing back. The curves were widened so that vehicle can pass without stopping and losing its momentum. Furthermore traffic safety devices like convex mirrors, reflective pavement marking etc. are also provided for safety of commuters.

For design purpose, roads have been classified as link and major roads. The methodology for link roads is based on physical inspection and development of complete inventory of roads/track, identifying its damages and proposed remedial measures. A team of surveyor and engineers visited each road to identify road widening, improvements in geometry like curve widening, grade improvement etc. damage condition of side drains, causeways and culverts, breast and retaining walls etc. The dimensions of all such structures that needed to be reconstructed and / or repair are taken to calculate the magnitude of work involved and preparation of Bill of Quantities. Similarly photo log of these road are also maintained for future reference.

As far as major roads are concerned, it was planned to carry out all necessary surveys, studies and investigations conventionally required for design. These studies include;

• Topographic survey.
• Damage assessment of existing road structures.
• Hydrological studies for design of bridges and other cross drainage structures.
• Soil investigations for cross drainage structures, pavement design and for slope stabilization measures.
• Traffic counts survey for pavement design and width of carriageway.
• Identification of sources of road construction materials in the project area.
• Environmental studies as per prevailing bye laws.