PARAMESH WALL AT KALIAPANI CHROMITE MINES

Reinforced soil wall was considered as an ideal solution. Paramesh wall system consisting of Terramesh (gabion facia units with an integrated double twist mesh) fascia and ParaLink (geogrid) as a reinforcing element was installed. The Paramesh wall is built around the OB dumps for the stabilization purpose. The maximum height of the wall is 31m. The wall is designed to support the live load of the heavy trucks used at the facility. The truck’s payload exceeds 22kPa. The main advantages for selecting the above solution were: 1) Flexibility- Flexibility of system helps the structure to accommodate differential settlement without any compromise in structural integrity. 2) Simplicity in construction- The construction is simple and fast. It does not involve deep excavation, dewatering of trenches and erection of formwork. 3) Cost-effectiveness-The total cost of gabion fascia solution is less than rubble wall and R.C.C. wall. Also, minimum foundation is required. 4) Permeability- The ability to combine drainage and retention functions makes it an ideal structure. 5) Environmentally friendly- The system allows vegetation to grow through it. This further stabilizes the slope.