Ethiopia Institute of Technology- Mekelle
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Item Investigation on Practice of Ethiopia Building Regulations and Codes of Standard in Mekelle City Municipality - Tigray(Mekelle University, 2025-07-24) Mebrahatu TadeleSince 1983, Ethiopia has established three Building Codes of Standards, along with national building regulations, a building proclamation, building directives, a construction policy, training institutions, a product standardization agency, and directives for licensing contractors and consultants. However, the proper enforcement of these laws, regulations, and standards remains questionable due to poor implementation, inadequate monitoring, and weak oversight by relevant authorities. Additionally, the compatibility of these regulations, policies, codes, and standards with the country's economic development, existing technologies, and available workforce is debatable. As a result, the country continues to experience significant loss of life, property damage, and economic setbacks. This research project aims to investigate the implementation of Ethiopia’s building regulations and codes of standards in the Mekelle City Municipality, Tigray. A review of relevant literature provides a foundation for the study, and data is collected through questionnaire surveys and records reviews. The data is then analyzed using SPSS v.20 software. The study reveals that out of 75 targeted respondents, 61 (86.7%) participated, including contractors, consultants, building officials, and regional professionals. The findings highlight a significant gap between established building regulations and actual practices due to inadequate inspections and weak enforcement mechanisms. The lack of a centralized authority and clearly defined procedures further contributes to non-compliance. Key issues identified include unclear professional responsibilities, insufficient regulation of building materials, and a lack of standardized practices. The failure to implement Ethiopian building regulations and codes of standards stems from multiple factors, including a lack of awareness, weak enforcement mechanisms, corruption, economic constraints, rapid urbanization, political instability, cultural preferences for traditional practices, and inadequate infrastructure for monitoring compliance.Item Investigating Challenges of Construction and Demolition Waste Management, in the Case of Mekelle, Tigray(Mekelle University, 2025-07-18) Kiros Hailemariam MeseleWith rapid urbanization and economic growth, All the activities, new construction, renovation, and demolition of buildings and structures generate huge amounts of waste, which require reduction in generation and proper management. Nevertheless, due to several barriers and constraints this could not be implemented. The purpose of this study was investigating challenges of construction and demolition waste management in Mekelle construction projects. Based on this objective, the factors that contribute waste, effects of C&DW, current construction waste management practice and major challenges of C&DW management have been investigated. The study used semi structured interview and questionnaire survey for data collecting techniques, and relative importance index for descriptive data analysis. The result of the study shown the improper material handling and storage, poor supervision, lack of skilled man power and late design changes are the most contributing factors to waste generation. Whereas, Project cost overrun, Environmental Pollution, Reduction in profit, Resources depletion and public health and safety risks are the main effect of C&DW. In the current construction waste management practices, the governing strategies i.e. waste reduction and proper management were not effectively implemented. Furthermore, the following main challenges were identified in this research. The challenges are; Improper planning & waste management practice, Ineffective waste management plan, Insufficient waste management training programs, Poor supervision practice, Lack enforcement of regulations, Absence of training on waste minimization strategies for construction firms, insufficient legislation & regulation, Lack of Government incentives, Low Concern for socio-economic and environmental effect of wastage, Resistance to change traditional management practices, Poor coordination among construction stakeholders, Believing waste not a problem on site, High cost with low quality of recycled materials, Lack of demand for recycled materials, and High cost of waste disposal. The study also recommends that Managing C &D Waste needs a serious attention from all the stakeholders involved throughout the construction process.Item Sustainable Sisal Fibers Reinforced Cement Composites: Development, Characterization, and Mechanical Performance for Wall Applications(Mekelle University, 2025-06-13) Meselu ZewduSisal fibers, extracted from Agave sisalana plants, are abundantly available in Tigray region of Ethiopia. This study investigates the potential of NaOH-treated sisal fibers as sustainable and costeffective reinforcement in cement composites. C-25 concrete and Grade 42.5R cement was used, and mix proportions determined using the ACI method. A water-to-cement ratio of 0.56 was adopted to achieve the target slump range of 75 -100 mm, ensuring adequate workability. The experimental investigation focused on sisal fiber-reinforced cement composites with varying fiber lengths (10 mm, 15 mm, and 20 mm) and contents (1 %, 2 %, and 3 % by weight of cement). The fibers were treated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to enhance their interfacial bonding with the cement matrix. Mechanical properties, including compressive, split tensile and flexural strength, were evaluated at 7 and 28 days of curing. To determine the optimal mix configuration, the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was employed. SolidWorks software was also used to model the testing setups, providing detailed visualization of loading and specimen arrangements. The optimal mix was identified at 28 days as the composite containing 15 mm fiber length at 2 % content, which achieved the highest tensile strength (4.10 Mpa), compressive strength (31.6 Mpa), and flexural strength (5.4 Mpa). These findings confirm that NaOH-treated sisal fiber can enhances the mechanical performance of cement composites and offers a promising, eco-friendly alternative for both structural and non-structural wall applications.Item The Potential of Alkali-Treated Sisal Fiber/Granite Reinforced Hybrid Composites for Automotive Semi-Trailer Loading Floor Applications(Mekelle University, 2025-06-13) Semere AyahuneyNatural fiber reinforced composites offer a sustainable alternative in the composite industry due to their low density, high specific strength, and eco-friendliness. Sisal fibers, abundantly grown in northern Ethiopia, are attractive for their low cost and favorable mechanical properties but are limited by their inherent weaknesses in mechanical strength, water absorption resistance, and durability. This research focuses on enhancing these properties in sisal/polyester composites for automotive applications, specifically for a semi-trailer loading floor. The study investigates the efficacy of alkali (NaOH) treatment of sisal fibers and hybridization with granite powder as a filler to improve mechanical performance and water resistance. Experimental evaluations determined that a composite with 30 wt.% alkali-treated sisal fibers and 5 wt.% granite powder (E8) exhibited the best overall mechanical properties (tensile, flexural, compressive, and impact strengths) and significantly reduced water absorption. The Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) was employed to select this optimal composite formulation from various alternatives. Subsequently, a Genetic Algorithm (GA) was used to optimize the design of a sisal/granite hybrid composite loading floor, achieving an approximate weight reduction of 64.3% compared to a conventional steel counterpart. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) validated the optimized design, confirming a peak stress of 43.9 MPa and a minimum factor of safety of 2.19 in the most critical ply, meeting the design constraints. The maximum deflection was 1.459 mm, well within serviceable limits. The findings demonstrate the potential of alkali-treated sisal/granite polyester composites as a lightweight, durable, and sustainable material for semi-structural transport applications.Item Investigation of Ceramic Tile Waste as Partial Replacement of Cement in concrete(Mekelle University, 2024-11-08) Tsegay Kassahun GebreegzabiheThe construction industry's rapid growth coupled with increasing environmental concerns and necessitates sustainable practices. The study investigates grinded ceramic tile wastes as a partial replacement for cement for C-30 concrete grade having an aim to feel material scarcity and enhance sustainability in the construction industry. After the concrete ingredients test, mix design of C-30 concrete grade was prepared and concrete cube specimen with 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25% and 30% of ceramic tile wastes in place of cement were casted, cured and tested for compressive and flexural strength. The experimental test results have revealed, an increase in the proportion of grinded ceramic tile waste in concrete production decreases workability. In terms of strength, both compressive and flexural strengths initially increased with ceramic tile waste, peaking at 10% replacement with a compressive strength of 40.26 MPa and a flexural strength of 4.31 MPa at 28 days. Beyond 10%, both strengths declined indicating that while moderate ceramic waste enhances concrete strength but excessive replacement negatively impacts performance. And the cost analysis revealed that incorporating ceramic waste significantly reduces the cement cost. It can therefore be concluded that in areas where cement scarcity or high costs are prevalent, the partial replacement of cement with grinded ceramic tile waste in concrete is a viable and sustainable alternative. The use of ceramic waste at optimal levels can improve strength properties and offers significant cost advantages while contributing to waste management and reducing the environmental impact of construction activities.Item Investigation the Causes of Delay and its Impact on Urban Road Projects in Shire Town –Tigray(Mekelle University, 2025-02-21) Goitom TsehayeIn construction, the word "delay" refers to something that happens later than expected, according to schedule, specified in the contract or beyond the date agreed by the parties to deliver the project and one of the most common issues considered during implementation of construction projects. Construction delays have an impact on more than just construction industry, but also an Influence on the overall economy of a country like Ethiopia. Relative Importance Index (RII) analysis was used to test the agreement between different groups of respondents participated in the questionnaire survey, and to rank the most causative factor of delay in urban road projects in case of shire town. This project identified thirty nine (39) causes of delay. There were forty (40) valid Questionnaires which received back from Contractors, Consultants, and employer. The objective of the project is to investigate the causes of delay and their impacts in construction of urban road projects in case of shire town. The causes of delay were grouped in to seven (7) as client related delays, consultant related delay, contractor related delay, material related delay, equipment related delay, Labor related delay and external related factors or outside the Control of Either Party to the Contract. The project study identified and ranked the top or most causative factor for delay in urban road construction projects are: Lack of construction materials with relative important index (RII) of (0.85). Escalation of materials prices with relative important index (RII) of (0.845). Force majeure with relative important index (RII) of (0.84). Material market instability with relative important index (RII) of (0.825). Poor communication and coordination with other parties with relative important index (RII) of (0.805). Inaccurate time estimate with relative important index (RII) of (0.77). Inaccurate site investigation with relative important index (RII) of (0.77). Lack of construction machinery with relative important index (RII) of (0.76). Poor quality of construction materials with relative important index (RII) of (0.74). Improper project feasibility study with relative important index (RII) of (0.715). Poor Communication and coordination with other parties with relative important index (RII) of (0.705). Conflicts between contractors and firm members with relative important index (RII) of (0.70). Economic, financial and environmental impacts have been found the most impacts of delay with relative important index (RII) of 0.93, 0.925 and 0.845 respectively.Item Assessing the Impact of Improper Sidewalks on Pedestrian Safety and Level of Service in Mekelle City(Mekelle University, 2025-07-22) Kibrom WelduPedestrian safety is a vital yet often neglected aspect of urban development in rapidly growing cities like Mekelle, Ethiopia. This study examines how improper sidewalk conditions, such as narrow, obstructed, and poorly maintained paths affect pedestrian safety and the Pedestrian Level of Service. A mixed-methods approach was used to comprehensively assess pedestrian conditions in Mekelle City. Quantitative data collection involved measuring sidewalk widths, counting pedestrians, and conducting structured surveys to evaluate safety, usability, and infrastructure quality. Physical assessments also identified common obstructions like vendors, utility poles, and parked vehicles. PLOS was evaluated using the Highway Capacity Manual, considering factors such as surface condition, lighting, and crossing points. Complementing this, qualitative data were gathered through field observations and open-ended survey responses to capture pedestrian experiences, perceptions of safety, and challenges such as poor lighting, unmarked crossings, and obstructed walkways, especially during nighttime travel. The findings show that most sidewalks are narrower than the recommended 1.2 meters and often obstructed by vendors, poles, or construction materials, making them unsafe. PLOS ratings ranged from C to E, indicating poor walking conditions. Over half of respondents felt unsafe, mainly due to poor lighting, inadequate crossings, and lack of maintenance. This study concludes that Mekelle's pedestrian infrastructure significantly hinders walkability and compromises safety. Recommendations include adopting international design standards, enforcing clear regulations to prevent sidewalk encroachment, and incorporating inclusive urban design principles in future planning. These insights provide essential guidance for urban planners and policymakers aiming to create safer, more accessible pedestrian environments in Mekelle and similar urban contexts.Item Sustainable Design and Development of ceiling board from waste garment fabric reinforced composites with sisal fiber(Mekelle University, 2025-06-13) BRKTI MERDUThis study focuses on converting textile waste into a useful resource by utilizing it in to new product which is ceiling boards. The textile waste materials were collected from a local textile factory, MAA Garment. And it combined with sisal fibers as reinforcement with unsaturated polyester matrix. These recycled materials can be used to successfully develop composite materials that exhibit high strength, rigidity and ideal weight ceiling board applications. Different structural configurations were prepared with a 30/70% fiber-to-polyester resin ratio using randomly oriented cut waste fabrics: SSS (S1), SFS (S2), FSF (S3), and SSS (S4). The materials were mixed manually in the fabrication process. Demonstrating waste fabric and sisal fiber hybrid polyester composite laminates can effectively replace gypsum ceiling boards which offering notable environmental benefits and promoting the recycling of waste into functional construction materials are the two key goals of this research. Samples were prepared via the hand lay-up method, with fiber-to- polyester resin weight ratio 30/70%. And the sisal fiber were treated by alkali to enhance interfacial adhesion and remove impurities. Those treatment of fiber leads to enhance mechanical and physical properties of the laminate. This laminate pass through a series of experimental tests to evaluate the compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strengths, density, and water absorption rate. Finally the laminate shows good mechanical properties especially in flexural, tensile strength and water absorption. The optimized laminate achieved a 29% reduction in weight compared to gypsum boards, reducing from 12 kg to 8.49 kg. According to literature-based optimization, the water absorption of the laminate was only 5%, which represents a 54.5% reduction compared to lightweight cement boards, 50% compared to gypsum ceiling boards, and 44% compared to fiber cement boards (DORCK brand). To determine the optimal laminate configuration, the TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) method was employed. The analysis revealed that the F-S-F (S3) layup was the most effective. This optimal laminate, arranged in a 90°–45°–90° orientation, was further optimized using a Genetic Algorithm (GA) in MATLAB and its performance validated through re-analysis in ABAQUS software.Item EVALUATION OF SUSTAINABLE URBAN MOBILITY IN THE CITY OF MEK’ELE(Mekelle University, 2020-06-28) Yoseph SolomonCurrently, cities are looking for all round transport sustainability. Nevertheless, urban transportation can create a problem on economic, social and environmental aspect of the city. Up on observation residents have complaint on the fare for local transportation, vehicles noise disturbance and services provided by public transport. This thesis indexed eleven urban sustainable transport indicators. Based on the indexed results of the tool, SWOT analysis is conducted. The study also sought to identify the remedial measures that should be undertaken to mitigate the problems. The study area is defined to be Mek’ele city. The sustainable urban mobility indicators are assessed through a procedure that requires various method of data collection and data processing. World Bank backed online software was used after data legitimizing and confirmation was made between Tigray Construction Road and Transport Bureau and the world councils of urban sustainable development headquarter at Geneva, Switzerland. The indicator, access to mobility service, is based on percentage of people living within a radius of 400 meters from a public transport stops. Fatalities were considered as the number of deaths per annum per 100,000 inhabitants. For mobility space usage, area of roads, open parking, service areas and petrol stations were considered. Length of road network with sidewalks, with bike lanes, in zone 30 (km/h) and total length of city road network were served as input for the indicator of opportunity for active mobility .The social aspects such as, access for mobility impaired groups, comfort and pleasure, commuting travel time and security is indexed using structured questionnaire as part of the tool. For noise hindrance, sound measurements were taken. Affordability of public transport for the poorest quartile is measured by GDP and population’s lowest quartile income as a data. The sustainability for Mek’le city transport system is 4.93/10, suggesting weak sustainable mobility conditions for the city‘s transport system. The SWOT analysis has the prospects of being used in policymaking, defining strategic directions and the implementation of measures towards the fulfilment of sustainable urban mobility in the city of Mek’ele.Item Estimating Traffic Congestion Costs for selected Road of Mekelle City(Mekelle University, 2020-06-28) Wahd SolomunTraffic congestion is a problem which occurs on road network characterized by slower speed, longer trip time due to excessive vehicles from different direction. Traffic congestion have a negative impact on society such as late reach to work place by increasing travel time, on health by creating stress, mentality and physical discomfort, increasing fuel consumption and air pollution. Mekelle is one of the fastest growing city in Ethiopia. Accordingly, traffic congestion is growing extremely in the city and results time wastage on travel and other direct and indirect effects on the society. This study is concentrated on two selected intersection the first one is four leg signalized intersection which is found around commercial bank of Ethiopia, main branch and the second one is four leg intersection which is found around Relief Society of Tigray in this intersection traffic light is not functional for about two years but after data collection performed the traffic signal was maintained and the intersection become signalized. Then again traffic volume data was conducted at signalized case. The main objective of this study is to estimate traffic congestion costs for selected intersection of Mekelle city and to suggest the possible counter measure for the problem. Primary and secondary data was collected to accomplish the study objectives. Primary data traffic volume, vehicle occupancy, signal timing, geometric data and daily labor cost was collected. The traffic volume count was made using video recording starting in the morning peak time 7:00AM-10:00AM, at noon time 11:00 AM-2:30 PM and the evening peak time 4:30 PM- 7:30 PM at 15 minutes interval was done for both intersections. The vehicles were counted by type passenger car, bus and small and medium truck vehicles. The average vehicle occupancy was collected based on traffic engineering vehicle occupancy data collection manual. After the data was collected data analysis was made. Delay at the intersection was analyzed using SYNCHRO software. Then using the collected data and delay annual peak hour cost of traffic congestion in both intersection was estimated. The cost of congestion consists travel time cost, fuel consumption cost and cost of co2 emission gas due to excess fuel usage. The result is found about (5,339,609.37ETB annual peak hour cost) at CBE four leg signalized intersection, (3,789,746.99ETB annual peak hour cost) at REST four leg unsignalized intersection, and (3,181,684.41ETB annual peak hour cost) at REST four leg signalized intersection. Annual peak hour travel time cost represents the opportunity costs of wasted time on congested intersection which shows the largest category at CBE intersection found about 4,311,552.5ETB nearly 81% of total cost of the intersection, at REST unsignalized is about 3,116,165ETB about 82% of cost of intersection and REST signalized have 2,618,690.9ETB about 82% of total intersection cost. Meanwhile annual peak hour cost of fuel is the second contributor to the overall cost of congestion with 1,009,870.3ETB at CBE, 661,988.9 ETB at REST unsignalized intersection and 552,987.4 ETB at REST signalized intersection which is about 18% of the total cost. On the other hand annual peak hour emissions costs is the least contributor to the overall cost of congestion and estimated about 18,186.57ETB at CBE intersection, about 11,611.09ETB at REST unsignalized intersection and 10,006.11 ETB at REST signalized intersection. The cost of congestion result shows the effect of congestion is highly concentrated on the travel time of public transport users’ means 78% of the travel time cost is for the public transport users.