Longitudinal Reinforcement:

1. To assist concrete, in resting compression, so as to reduce the overall size, of the column.

2. To resist any tension that might develop due to bending caused by transverse load, eccentric load or the moments.

3. To reduce the effect of creep and shrinkage due to sustained loading.

4. To prevent or delay sudden brittle collapse.

5. To impart necessary ductility to the column.

6. To hold the transverse reinforcement.

Transverse Reinforcement:

1. To prevent buckling of longitudinal bars.

2. To prevent longitudinal splitting of concrete.

3. To resist diagonal tension due to transverse shear.

4. To confine the concrete.

5. To hold the longitudinal reinforcement in position.

6. To prevent or delay sudden collapse and impart necessary ductility to the members.