NHAI Infrastructure Development with Ocean Geocomposite in Patna, Bihar

Introduction

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plays a pivotal role in the development and maintenance of India’s extensive road network, ensuring connectivity and economic growth. With rapid infrastructure expansion, the demand for advanced engineering solutions like geosynthetics has surged. Among the latest innovations enhancing road longevity and performance is geocomposite, a multifunctional material that integrates geotextiles and geogrids.

Ocean Non Wovens, a leading manufacturer and supplier of geosynthetics, contributed to an NHAI project in Patna, Bihar, by supplying 3,000 SQM of Ocean Geocomposite. This case study explores the application, benefits, and unique insights into geocomposite usage in highway construction.

The Role of Geocomposites in NHAI Projects

Highway construction faces numerous challenges, including soil instability, water drainage issues, and pavement deterioration. To combat these challenges, NHAI incorporates geosynthetics into various infrastructure projects.

Geocomposites are engineered materials that combine two or more geosynthetic functions, typically a geotextile for filtration and separation and a geogrid for reinforcement. Their key functions in road construction include:

• Soil Stabilization: Enhances subgrade strength, reducing settlement and improving load distribution.
• Drainage and Filtration: Prevents water accumulation by allowing proper filtration while maintaining soil integrity.
• Erosion Control: Reduces soil erosion along embankments and slopes, ensuring long-term structural stability.
• Reinforcement: Enhances pavement life by distributing loads and reducing rutting and cracking.

According to research, the use of geosynthetics in road construction can reduce maintenance costs by up to 50% over a road’s lifecycle (Koerner, 2016).

Project Execution in Patna, Bihar

Patna, Bihar, is witnessing rapid urbanization, increasing vehicular traffic and requiring robust road networks. For this specific NHAI project, Ocean Non Wovens supplied 3,000 SQM of Ocean Geocomposite, designed to address critical roadway challenges such as weak subgrade and water infiltration.

Challenges Faced in the Project:

1. Weak Soil Subgrade: Bihar’s alluvial soil composition required reinforcement to prevent road deformation.
2. Heavy Rainfall & Drainage Issues: High moisture content in the soil led to frequent pavement failures.
3. Increased Traffic Load: The road needed reinforcement to sustain growing vehicular loads.

Solution: Implementation of Ocean Geocomposite

To counter these challenges, Ocean Geocomposite was strategically placed beneath the pavement layers. The geotextile component provided efficient filtration and separation, preventing fine soil particles from migrating into the base layer, while the geogrid enhanced load distribution.

Impact & Benefits of Ocean Geocomposite in the Project

The inclusion of Ocean Geocomposite yielded multiple benefits:

• Improved Pavement Longevity: The reinforced structure minimized rutting and cracking, significantly increasing the road’s lifespan.
• Cost Savings: Reduced maintenance costs due to enhanced durability, leading to lower lifecycle expenses.
• Enhanced Drainage Performance: Prevented water logging, reducing moisture-induced damage to the pavement layers.
• Eco-Friendly Solution: Geosynthetics reduce material wastage and carbon emissions compared to conventional construction methods.

Studies indicate that geocomposites can extend pavement life by 2-3 times compared to traditional road construction methods (FHWA, 2020).

The Growing Adoption of Geosynthetics in NHAI Projects

NHAI has increasingly recognized the advantages of geosynthetics, integrating them into several infrastructure projects. Some of the most widely used geosynthetics in Indian highways include:

1. Geotextiles: Used for separation, filtration, and drainage.
2. Geogrids: Provide reinforcement for weak subgrades.
3. Geomembranes: Used for waterproofing applications.
4. Geocells: Improve load distribution and erosion control.
5. Geocomposites: Offer a combination of reinforcement and drainage solutions, making them one of the most versatile materials in highway engineering.

According to a report by MarketsandMarkets (2023), the Indian geosynthetics market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.2% due to the increasing adoption in highway and infrastructure projects.

Conclusion: Why Choose Ocean Geocomposite for Highway Construction?

The success of the NHAI project in Patna demonstrates the critical role that advanced geosynthetics like Ocean Geocomposite play in modern infrastructure development. By ensuring improved pavement performance, reducing maintenance costs, and enhancing sustainability, Ocean Geocomposite has proven to be an indispensable solution for highway construction.

At Ocean Non Wovens, we take pride in supplying cutting-edge geosynthetics that drive efficiency and durability in infrastructure projects. Whether for highways, railways, or embankments, our geosynthetic solutions are engineered for excellence. Partner with us for your next project and experience the future of sustainable construction.