Geocells in bridge approach transitions for high-speed railway - A case study

The Paper presents a case study demonstrating the use of geocells to replace concrete approach slabs and reinforce transition at railway bridge approaches. The objective is to study the effect of geocell system to enhance the train speeds up to 160 kmph on the Bombay - Delhi railway route. Geocell layers of differential lengths were installed over the blanket layer on the existing track to ensure a smooth transition. Field observations confirmed that the geocell layers were successful in ensuring a smooth transition of bridge approaches. Further, the geocell layers proved that by avoiding the conventional concrete slab, there is considerable saving in capital costs and construction time. The proposed cross-section of the bridge transition system also minimizes differential settlements and imposed bearing pressures on the sub-grade soil. With this system, the maintenance cycle is extended which not only reduces downtime but also the life cycle costs.