How does rehabilitation differ from reconstruction in highway work?

Rehabilitation in highway work primarily focuses on enhancing and restoring existing pavement to extend its lifespan and improve its functionality. This process typically includes activities such as resurfacing, patching, and upgrading drainage systems, which help to address issues like surface wear, cracking, and structural deficiencies while maintaining the underlying pavement structure.

In contrast, reconstruction entails a more extensive process where the existing roadway is entirely removed and replaced. This usually requires a complete overhaul of the road system, including rebuilding the foundation and possibly changing the road’s alignment or geometry, which means it is a more material-intensive process compared to rehabilitation.

The emphasis of rehabilitation on improving what is already there allows for quicker implementation and less disruption compared to the comprehensive nature of reconstruction. Thus, rehabilitation is critical in highway management, focusing on preserving and enhancing the current infrastructure rather than starting anew.