Earthwork logistics – borrow pits and spoil banks Which of the following statements about borrow pits and spoil banks in highway construction is correct?

Introduction / Context:
Efficient earthwork planning balances cut and fill and identifies sources (borrow pits) and sinks (spoil banks) for surplus or deficient material. Their location strongly influences safety, drainage, and environmental impact.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Borrow pits supply embankment material when in-situ cuts are insufficient.
• Spoil banks receive surplus excavated material that cannot be reused.
• Right of way (ROW) and adjacent lands are considered.

Concept / Approach:
Borrow pits are typically placed outside the acquired ROW to avoid weakening the verge, ensure safety, and maintain drainage. Depending on access and land agreements, they may lie on either side of the alignment. Spoil banks are generally consolidated on one side in designated areas to minimize obstruction and simplify protection/planting.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Confirm that borrow pits lie outside the ROW → correct.They can be on either side based on haul economy → correct.Spoil banks are usually planned on one side for management and erosion control → correct.Thus, all statements are correct.

Verification / Alternative check:
Good practice guides emphasize borrow pit setbacks, side selection by haul optimization, and controlled spoil placement and stabilization.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each individual statement is correct; none is false in this context.

Common Pitfalls:
Borrow pits too close to the carriageway leading to edge instability; uncontrolled spoil heaps obstructing drainage or visibility.

Final Answer:
All the above