Case Study: Strengthening Defense Infrastructure with Hexagonal Woven Double Twisted Gabion Boxes in Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh

Introduction

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) plays a crucial role in constructing and maintaining roads that serve as strategic lifelines for the Indian defense forces, especially in high-altitude and remote regions. Given the harsh climatic conditions and challenging terrains in areas like Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, BRO requires robust and resilient infrastructure solutions.

Ocean Non Wovens is proud to have contributed to one such project by supplying and deploying 500 Hexagonal Woven Double Twisted Gabion Boxes. These structures were instrumental in enhancing road stability, preventing soil erosion, and reinforcing embankments to ensure seamless movement for defense operations.

The Role of Geosynthetics in Border Road Organisation (BRO) and Defense Infrastructure

Border road projects and defense infrastructure demand high-performance materials that can withstand extreme environmental stress. Geosynthetics, particularly gabion structures, play a vital role in achieving this by:

• Soil Retention & Erosion Control: Gabion boxes act as a permeable yet rigid structure that prevents landslides and soil erosion, which is critical in mountainous terrains.
• Structural Reinforcement: Roads and embankments built in high-altitude regions face constant stress from heavy military and civilian traffic. Gabions provide additional strength and prevent failure due to soil movement.
• Drainage and Filtration: Gabion structures allow water to pass through while holding back soil particles, reducing hydrostatic pressure and minimizing the chances of road collapse.
• Flexibility and Durability: Unlike rigid concrete structures, gabions are flexible and can adapt to ground movements, making them a preferred choice for BRO and defense road construction projects.

According to a study published in Construction and Building Materials Journal, gabion structures have been proven to reduce the incidence of road failure by over 60% in hilly areas (Source: Construction and Building Materials, 2022).

Project Overview: Hexagonal Woven Double Twisted Gabion Box Installation in Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh

Challenges Faced

The project location in Sirmaur presented multiple challenges, including:

• Steep Slopes and Unstable Terrain: The risk of landslides was high, requiring immediate reinforcement.
• Harsh Weather Conditions: Heavy rainfall and temperature variations made conventional road stabilization methods less effective.
• Strategic Importance: The road was crucial for military movement, necessitating a quick yet durable solution.

Our Solution: Hexagonal Woven Double Twisted Gabion Boxes

Ocean Non Wovens supplied and installed 500 Hexagonal Woven Double Twisted Gabion Boxes, each engineered to provide:

• High Load-Bearing Capacity: Capable of withstanding heavy loads, essential for military and supply vehicles.
• Enhanced Durability: Manufactured using galvanized steel wire for corrosion resistance and longevity.
• Adaptability to Terrain Movements: The double-twisted wire mesh structure prevented failure due to minor shifts in terrain.
• Sustainable Construction: Unlike concrete retaining walls, gabions integrate naturally with the environment, promoting vegetation growth over time.

A report by the Indian Road Congress highlights that the use of gabions can extend the lifespan of border roads by up to 30% (Source: Indian Road Congress, 2023).

Unique Aspects of This Project That Many Don’t Talk About

1. Seismic Resistance: Given that Himachal Pradesh is in a seismically active zone, gabions provided an additional advantage by absorbing seismic shocks without collapsing.
2. Ease of Maintenance: Unlike concrete structures that require periodic repairs, gabion walls are self-sustaining and require minimal maintenance.
3. Eco-Friendly Alternative: The permeability of gabions allows vegetation growth, blending the structure into the natural environment and preventing soil degradation.
4. Rapid Deployment for Strategic Needs: Military operations often require infrastructure solutions that can be set up quickly; gabions were installed in record time without compromising quality.

Conclusion

The successful execution of this project in Sirmaur stands as a testament to the effectiveness of Hexagonal Woven Double Twisted Gabion Boxes in fortifying roads and embankments for border and defense infrastructure. Ocean Non Wovens is honored to support India’s defense needs with high-quality geosynthetic solutions that ensure long-term stability, safety, and sustainability.

If you are looking for innovative and reliable geosynthetic solutions for defense or infrastructure projects, Ocean Non Wovens is your trusted partner. With years of expertise and a commitment to quality, we deliver solutions that stand the test of time. Contact us today to learn more!