No more road damage due to waterlogging; Geocell tarring as solution

THRISSUR: Geocell tarring, a solution to the collapse of roads caused by soil subsidence during rains, to be used in Kerala as well. This is a method of tarring the road after sealing it with high-density polypropylene (plastic) chambers. This method will be a relief for coastal roads and other roads where there is permanent waterlogging. Geocell tarring is widespread in European countries.

Road work using Geotextile (Geocell) for the first time in the state is progressing on the Kecheri Bypass on the Thrissur-Kuttippuram State Highway. It will also be used at Vizhinjam Shipyard.

Honeycomb-like geocell cells are stacked on the road and filled with a mixture of metal and M-sand (Wetmix Macadam). After it settles in the soil, tarring is done over it. Geo cells are laid after strengthening the soil by pounding it.

Geocell is being used for a 1.2 km road through the middle of the field on a total of 10 km road in Kecheri Bypass. This is a road where traffic is blocked during the rainy season. Geocell is brought from Maharashtra at a rate of Rs 650 per square meter. The cost of the road is 48.59 crores.

Retaining wall will also be strong

• Approved by the Indian Roads Congress, the apex body of engineers who frame standards for highway construction
• Can be used to strengthen parking lots, bridge sections and retaining walls. Erosion can be prevented on sloping roads
• Raw materials including metal and tar can be reduced. Although Geocell is a plastic product, there is no pollution problem as it is under the road

'Geo cell tarring is essential for waterlogged roads'

EI Sajith

KRFB