Strata undertook a significant project involving the design and construction of Reinforced Soil (RS) wall approaches along the NH-363 highway, spanning a 42-kilometer stretch from Mancherial to Repallewada in Telangana.
The client’s primary requirement was to find a cost-effective and efficient alternative to the conventional approach of using Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) retaining walls along the highway approaches. This was motivated by the acknowledgment that RCC retaining walls are not only costlier but also time-consuming compared to the potential benefits offered by Reinforced Soil walls.
In addressing the challenges posed by traditional RS wall systems, Strata introduced groundbreaking solutions, notably the development and implementation of the Embedded Connection (EC) system. This innovative system seamlessly connects the proprietary StrataStrip™ with facing panels in geosynthetic reinforced soil retaining walls, eliminating the need for exposed steel components that are susceptible to corrosion. This not only enhances the safety of the structure by avoiding potential connection failures due to corrosion but also contributes to the overall ease of construction.
The project successfully utilised two types of backfill (soil and pond ash), and Strata’s proposal to incorporate non-woven geotextile between the soil fill and drainage media prevented the migration of fines, ensuring long-term stability. Strata’s holistic approach, from planning and design to timely execution, provided a turn-key solution for the approach walls, demonstrating their commitment to delivering comprehensive and efficient solutions.
Strata’s proactive role in coordinating with the client, coupled with regular site monitoring from both on-site and head office perspectives, ensured smooth progress throughout the project. The StrataWall™ EC system’s unique features, such as embedded SCN and SCW connectors in the panel during casting, not only facilitated a safer and corrosion-resistant connection but also contributed to increased overall construction efficiency. In summary, Strata’s innovative solutions not only overcame the challenges associated with conventional methods but also provided a turnkey, cost-effective, and safer solution for the successful construction of RS wall approaches along the NH-363 highway in Telangana.
