Base Cross Drain - Definition and Uses

Definition:

A subsurface drain, generally perpendicular to the roadway alignment, designed to drain infiltrated water. Often needed at bridge abutments, toll plazas, and across the road on long downgrades.

Purpose & Use

The main purpose of the cross-drain is to channel water from above the path to the lower side. The source of the water may be from small streams, springs, mossy flushes, areas of uphill surface water or seepage. Cross-drains are also used to collect and disperse path surface water at low points on the path, or on sloping paths where water bars are not suitable for the path Use.