The Impact of Right-of-Way Problem on Road Construction Projects in Jimma Zone

Abstract

The road construction sector is one of the most crucial segments of a nation's and society's ability to attain urban and rural development goals. However, the most common issue in the road construction industry is right-of-way problems, and it is one of the factors that contribute to project delays and cost overruns. As a result, this research was carried out to investigate the causes, effects, and solutions to right-of-way issues in Jimma zone road construction projects. The study's main objective was to assess the impact of right-of-way problems on road construction projects in the Jimma zone. To achieve its objectives, the researcher identified the factors that cause right-of-way problems, the effects of those factors on road projects, and the methods to minimize the problems related to right-of-way. A questionnaire survey, a desk study, and site observation were carried out to achieve the research objectives and collect data. A questionnaire survey involving 30 respondents and key informant interviews were used to collect primary data. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select professional respondents from clients, consultants, and contractors. The research design used in this study was descriptive and explanatory, using quantitative and qualitative methods. Finally, the gathered data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and Excel, and then the result was interpreted according to the research objectives. According to the study findings, the top three causes of right-of-way problems in road construction projects were complaints about compensation payment, property owners' refusal to leave their original parcel, and poor communication among stakeholders, with RIIs of 0.967, 0.920, and 0.893, respectively. Following that, the study identified nine impacts of right-of-way issues on road projects. Time and cost overrun are the most significant effects, with RII of 0.89 and 0.82, respectively. Finally, seventeen approaches to minimizing right-of way problems were identified. Property valuations should be based on current market values (ranked first with RII = 0.93), and fair and adequate compensation payments for property owners (ranked second with RII = 0.92).