Assessment of the effect of variation on the performance of paved road projects in Uganda- a case of Uganda national roads maintenance program-Rwenzori region

Abstract

The Ugandan government has outlined infrastructure development as government priority. However, escalation in cost and time overruns of paved road projects is leading to lower density of roads network. This study was conducted in the Rwenzori region in Uganda considering Kyenjojo – Fort Portal (50km) road, Fort Portal – Hima (55km) road, Hima - Katunguru (58km) road and Katunguru - Ishaka (58km) road rehabilitated under Uganda National Roads Maintenance Program. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected using survey questionnaires from a sample size of 79 elements and documentary reviews. Data on causes of variation, impacts and mitigation strategy actions were analyzed using IBM SPSS and ranked through mean item scores. The study revealed that delayed issuing of approval documents, changes in scope of works and changes in design were the highly ranked client’s causes of variation. Changes in design, design flaws and delayed decision making were common with consultant whereas poor coordination and project management, delayed acquisition of permits and shortage of skilled manpower were highly ranked contractor’s causes. Delayed project completion, increased project cost and rework and demolitions were the highly ranks impacts of variation. The mitigation strategy actions to control variation and enhance performance were; adequate planning and availability of fund before works start on site, detailed site investigation at pre-construction stage while comprehensive design and financial reviews, client expedite approvals and decision making were recommended at construction stage. In Project performance (PP) model, impacts of variation (Iv) ranked highest with 34.08%, followed by mitigation strategy to control variation (Mv): 33.27%, then causes of variation (Cv): 32.65%. The research recommends a study on developing an appropriate approach of capturing data with regard to variation in paved road rehabilitation projects. Key words: Variation, Paved roads, Project performance, Model, Rwenzori Region