Long-Lasting Structures Possible with Geosynthetics:

 Long-Lasting Structures Possible with Geosynthetics:

 Prof. G.V. Rao, Former IIT Delhi Professor

• Construction must be based on soil characteristics

• Two-day BIS workshop concludes at Andhra University

VISAKHAPATNAM, February 28: Former IIT Delhi Professor G.V. Rao stated that durable and robust constructions are achievable through Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil (GRS) structures. He was speaking at a two-day workshop on the “BIS Code of Practice on Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil Structures,” jointly organized by the Department of Civil Engineering, Andhra University (AU) and the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in association with iGrip, IIT Gandhinagar and  Indian Geotechnical Society Visakhapatnam Chapter as part of AU’s Centenary Celebrations.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Rao highlighted that shifting from traditional methods to modern geosynthetic techniques can significantly reduce both construction and maintenance costs. He announced that a specific ‘Code of Practice’ has been developed for such indigenous constructions, and nationwide awareness and training programs are currently being conducted to implement these standards.

"India possesses diverse soil types and varying climatic conditions. We have formulated these standards by considering previous British and American codes while tailoring them specifically to suit Indian environmental conditions," Prof. Rao explained.

Prof. Rao noted that these structures serve as a lightweight alternative to traditional concrete retaining walls, utilizing only soil integrated with specialized grids, strips, and sheets. These methods are already being extensively used in the construction of National Highways. He further emphasized that the materials used in GRS structures are not only manufactured domestically but are also produced to international quality standards for export.

The expert mentioned the immense potential for applying these methods in Railway and Port projects. A specialized committee has been established for this purpose, which includes Prof. C.N.V. Satyanarayana Reddy and Prof. Rajagopal from Andhra University. Prof. Rao stressed the need to develop similar standards for ports and river-based structures in the future, alongside continuous training programs to build a skilled workforce in this sector.

Technical Sessions and Distinguished Speakers

The workshop featured several technical deep-dives:

• Design of Reinforced Soil Slopes: Presented by Prof. Amit Prashant (IIT Gandhinagar), Dr. Kolli Mohan Krishna (Geosynapse), and Prof. C.N.V. Satyanarayana Reddy (AU).

• Design of Basal Reinforcement: Presented by Dr. Ratnakar Mahajan (Maccaferri).

• Reinforced Soil True Abutments & Shored Reinforced Soil Structures: Presented by Saurabh Vyas (TechFab India).

• Basal Reinforcement with Geocells: Presented by Suraj Vedpathak and Prof. C.N.V. Satyanarayana Reddy.

• Walls, Drainage, Detailing & Construction Aspects: Explained by Dola Roy Chowdhury (G-Cube Consulting Engineers).

The event concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants. The workshop saw active participation from engineers representing the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, MES, DGNP, CPWD, GVMC, VMRDA, and HPCL, as well as various professors, researchers, and engineering students. The two-day seminar successfully provided a platform for in-depth knowledge sharing and technical advancement in civil engineering.