1. What is this item?

Earth cutting involves removing soil from high areas, while filling involves adding soil to low-lying zones to achieve a desired land profile. This is different from general levelling—here, large volumes of earth are actively relocated, either within the site or with external material brought in. It's often used for:

o Creating embankments, terraces, platforms for buildings

o Fixing water stagnation issues

o Elevating areas for infrastructure like sheds or roads

2. How is the Quantity Estimated?

It’s measured in cubic meters (m³) of soil to be cut or filled. A contour map or elevation survey helps estimate:

o Cut volume (excess soil to remove)

o Fill volume (shortage to be filled)

o Net volume moved (cut and fill often partially balance out)

3. What are the Cost Components for this item?

o Excavation cost using JCBs, backhoes, or bulldozers (₹900–₹1,400/hour)

o Loading & transporting soil if moved externally (₹50–₹100/m³ for loading, ₹150–₹300/m³ for transport)

o Soil compaction & rolling (₹8–₹15/m² if done)

o Labor charges if manual assistance is needed

o Environmental clearance fees in sensitive zones

o Supervision & measurement checks

4. What are the Going Rates and How is the Per Unit Rate Calculated?

o For on-site balancing (cut & fill on same plot), costs hover around ₹100–₹150/m³.

o If soil has to be brought in or taken away, costs spike to ₹200–₹400/m³ depending on distance, type of soil, and local contractor rates.

o If heavy compaction is needed (for foundations or roadbeds), add

₹20–₹30/m².