Road design on hill slopes — if the actual road gradient deviates from the proposed contour gradient toward the uphill side, what earthwork is required along the centre line? Choose the most appropriate action.

Introduction / Context:
On hill roads, the contour gradient represents the alignment maintaining a specified longitudinal slope. If the chosen alignment strays upward (towards higher ground), the designed grade line lies below the ground surface, necessitating specific earthwork to bring the roadway to grade.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Road on a hillside with a proposed contour gradient.
• Actual alignment deviates uphill relative to the proposed path.
• Decision needed on the nature of earthwork at the centre line.

Concept / Approach:
When the alignment shifts to higher ground, the natural surface is above the design grade. To achieve the desired grade, material must be removed along the centre line, i.e., excavation (cutting). Conversely, if the alignment deviates downhill, an embankment would be necessary to raise the formation.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard hill-road design practices illustrate that when the alignment moves into higher contours, cutting is unavoidable to maintain the target gradient.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Embankment: Applicable for downhill deviations where ground is lower than grade.
• Earthwork (unspecified): Vague; the correct specific action is cutting.
• None of these: Incorrect because cutting is required.

Common Pitfalls:
Misreading the phrase “uphill side” and prescribing fill instead of cut; always compare ground level with the designed grade line.

Final Answer:
Excavation (cutting) on the centre line