Side slope erosion has always been an issue for highway embankments. Especially during the monsoons, these slopes pose a challenge. The Larsen & Toubro-IDPI SPV, constructing its 163km long Rourkela-Sambalpur toll-way road project in Odisha faced this issue. The project is along the state highway SH-10, extending the original two lanes to four lanes. Odisha, a state on the East Coast of India is known for high intensity rains for long durations.
Initial site conditionThe embankment slope lengths were as long as 16 metres with a slope gradient of 2H : 1V. Such slopes are susceptible to erosion due to rainwater run-off and progressive attrition can compromise the stability of the vital earth structure.
| Location | Sambalpur – Rourkela, Odisha |
| Principal Client | Odisha Works Department |
| Client | Larsen & Toubro Sambalpur Rourkela Tollway Limited (L&T SRTL), a 100% owned SPV of L&T IDPL |
| Independent Engineer | Aarvee Associates Architects, Engineers & Consultants Pvt. Ltd. |
| Application | Slope erosion protection with StrataWeb® |
| Project Size | 72,828 sqm |
| Geosynthetics Used | StrataWeb® SW 712-75 |
Laying of StrataWeb®The Conventional Solution
Stone pitching is a conventional erosion control technique for embankment slopes. However, stone procurement and mining has become an onerous activity which also provokes environmental concerns. It requires skilled workmen and is labour intensive. With these factors and the new government policies emphasizing green highways with low carbon footprint, the StrataWeb® system is the best option.
Infilling of StrataWeb®Strata's Innovative Solution
The StrataWeb® innovative solution for side-slope protection is cost-effective, technically-sound, long-lasting and eco-friendly. The technically advanced solution leaves a low carbon footprint and lush greenery along the highway embankment slope, besides protecting the slopes against erosion.
StrataWeb® prevents erosion along the slope by providing a stable layer of confined material over the surface. Analysis by Strata specialists suggested SW 712-75 (weld spacing 712 mm and cell depth of 75 mm) as a safe and apt solution. StrataWeb® SW 712-75 when infilled with soil acts effectively as a barrier to virtually eliminate erosion along the slope surface. It provides a stable layer of confined material over the slope surface. The confined layer fosters vegetation growth to provide a green surface. Roots of the vegetation further prevent erosion.
Strata's Value Additions
- 5 times faster installation due to ease of StrataWeb® transportation and use of locally available and cheaper materials
- Saves up to 50% of the cost vs. stone pitching
- Increased life span with lower maintenance
- Environment friendly, low carbon emission
- A very good-looking green highway.
