Condition of the Vaults on the Highway Connecting Santa Ana and Ahuachapán

Abstract

The article aims to establish the importance of drainage systems on highways, which allow the proper management of water flows through the processes of collection, conveyance, and discharge. Roads in El Salvador are frequently exposed to the effects of water during the rainy season; unfortunately, drainage structures are often used as garbage disposal sites, causing sediment accumulation and blockages. Hence, the importance of verifying the current condition of the vaults located along the RN-13 highway in the El Portezuelo–Ahuachapán section, assessing their status and maintenance.

In the section studied, nine vaults were identified, seven of which are more than 70 years old and were only expanded when improvements were made to the highway. The inspection revealed that maintenance is carried out; however, it is not performed routinely. Therefore, it is necessary to raise awareness about the importance of periodic inspection and maintenance of drainage structures in order to prevent road closures.