What is the recommended maximum gradient for a road approaching a level crossing?

1 in 30 (3.33%). It can be relaxed to 1 in 20 (5%) in difficult terrain with the approval of the competent authority (Clause 4.1 & Table 1).

How much of the road should be level before the tracks?

A minimum length of 15 meters on either side, measured from the centerline of the outermost track, should be level (Clause 4.2).

What is the minimum width between gate posts for a new two-lane level crossing?

The clear width shall not be less than 7.5 meters (Clause 5.2).

IS 7634 Part 2

: 1975

Code of Practice for Level Crossings: Part 2 Road Approaches

CurrentSpecializedCode of PracticeTransportation · Railway Engineering

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This standard provides guidelines for the design and layout of road approaches to railway level crossings. It covers essential safety and operational parameters such as approach gradients, road width, visibility requirements, and surface characteristics to ensure safe passage of road traffic across railway lines.

Covers specific requirements for the design and construction of road approaches at level crossings.

Quick Reference Values

Recommended Gradient for Road Approaches1 in 30

Permissible Gradient in Difficult Terrain1 in 20

Minimum Length of Level Road Section from Outermost Track15 m

Minimum Clear Width Between Gate Posts (Two-Lane)7.5 m

Required Visibility Distance for 100 km/h Train Speed400 m

Practical Notes

The gradients specified are crucial for preventing vehicles from stalling on or near the tracks, especially heavy commercial vehicles.

Visibility splays are a critical safety feature and must be maintained free from obstructions; this is a common point of failure during site inspections.

While this code provides a base, always cross-reference with the latest Railway Board circulars and relevant Indian Roads Congress (IRC) standards for current practices.