In Thrissur, Geocell tarring is proposed as a solution to prevent road collapse due to soil subsidence during rains. This method involves sealing the road with high-density polypropylene chambers before applying the tar. It is particularly beneficial for coastal and waterlogged roads. Geocell tarring, a common practice in European countries, is now being introduced in Kerala. Road construction using Geotextile (Geocell) is underway for the first time in the state on the Kecheri Bypass of the Thrissur-Kuttippuram State Highway, with plans to implement it at Vizhinjam Shipyard as well.
The process involves stacking honeycomb like geocell cells on the road, filling them with a mixture of metal and M-sand, and then tarring over it once settled in the soil. Geo cells are laid after strengthening the soil through compaction. In Kecheri Bypass, Geocell is being utilized for a 1.2 km stretch on a total of 10 km road, addressing traffic blockages during the rainy season.
The Geocell material is sourced from Maharashtra at a rate of Rs.650 per square meter, with the project cost estimated at 48.59 crores. Additionally, Geocell can be employed to reinforce parking lots, bridge sections, and retaining walls, aiding in erosion prevention on sloping roads. The use of Geocell helps reduce raw material usage, including metal and tar. Despite being a plastic product, Geocell does not pose pollution issues as it remains beneath the road surface.
