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Stream/Area:
-
Subject:
-
Paper ID:
IJSREM62354
Volume:
10 |
5 |
May 2026
Pages:
1-8
Publication Frequency:
Monthly (12 issues per year)
License:International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management follows the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0) License, allowing free use and distribution with proper attribution.

Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Civil Engineering
Priyadarshini Bhagwati College of Engineering, Nagpur
Cost-effective bridge selection remains a critical challenge in infrastructure development, particularly for rural and medium-span crossings. This study presents a comparative cost analysis of SuperArch and PowerArch bridge systems using a practical engineering approach based on General Arrangement Drawings (GAD) and Maharashtra PWD Schedule of Rates (SSR). Three span configurations for each system were analysed through detailed quantity take-off and Excel-based estimation. The results demonstrate that SuperArch bridges achieve approximately 7-10% lower construction cost compared to PowerArch bridges for similar bridge lengths. This reduction is primarily attributed to minimization of substructure components and elimination of reinforcement steel. In contrast, PowerArch bridges provide greater span capability and modular construction advantages, but incur higher initial costs due to advanced materials such as HDPE pipes, GFRP reinforcement, and Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC). The study identifies span optimization and substructure reduction as the dominant factors governing bridge cost, providing a practical framework for engineers to select suitable bridge systems under real field conditions.
KEYWORDS
This study presents a GAD-based comparative cost analysis of SuperArch and PowerArch bridge systems using SSR rates. The results show that the SuperArch bridge achieves a minimum cost of ₹5.23 Cr, which is approximately 7–10% lower than the PowerArch bridge (₹5.63 Cr) for comparable spans. The analysis clearly indicates that substructure components (abutments, piers, and foundation) are the dominant contributors to total cost. Reduction in the number of piers through span optimization leads to significant savings in excavation and concrete, making it the most effective strategy for cost reduction. Although the PowerArch system offers advantages such as larger span capability and modular construction, its cost is higher due to the arch ring system and use of advanced materials. · SuperArch → Best for economical, medium-span bridges · PowerArch → Suitable for larger spans and advanced construction needs This study provides a practical and field-oriented framework for selecting cost-efficient bridge systems using GAD and SSR-based estimation.
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Publication Date
5/3/2026
Peer Review Type
Double-Blind Peer Review
Review Rounds: 2
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