Geo Textiles
Geocells for Pavement Reinforcement (17483(Part 2):2020)
Strategic Recommendation for Geocells for Pavement Reinforcement
- Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Begin BIS licensing well before 1 Jan 2024; conduct seam strength, durability, and dimensional compliance tests in BIS-approved labs. - Partner with Compliance Experts
Collaborate with ERA’s regulatory team for certification, documentation, and ISI marking readiness. - Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Get expert assistance for application filing, lab coordination, and packaging compliance. - Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to ERA Newsletter for updates on Geo Textiles (QCO), 2022 — including S.O. 1706(E), S.O. 2331(E), and MoT’s 6 Oct 2023 order. - Do a Gap Assessment
Compare current geocell specs with IS 17483 (Part 2):2020 to ensure compliance for highway, runway, and defense road applications.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Geocells for Pavement Reinforcement |
| IS Standard | IS 17483 (Part 2): 2020 |
| Title of IS | Geosynthetics – Geocells – Part 2: For Pavement Reinforcement – Specification |
| Quality Control Order | Geo Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022 |
| Notification & Amendments |
- Notified via S.O. 1706(E), dated 10 April 2023 - Amended via S.O. 2331(E), dated 24 May 2023 - Final enforcement via MoT Order dated 6 Oct 2023 |
| Final Enforcement Date | 1 January 2024 |
| Objective & Scope | To define technical specifications for geocells used in pavement base and sub-base reinforcement to improve load-bearing capacity and reduce deformation. |
| Products Covered | HDPE/polymeric cellular confinement systems specifically designed for pavement reinforcement in roads, highways, and airfields. |
| Exemptions | Products manufactured exclusively for export are exempt from BIS certification and ISI marking. |
| Industries Impacted |
- Road & Highway Construction - Airport Runways - Defense Roads & Border Infrastructure - Geosynthetics & Civil EPC Sectors |
| Mandatory Compliance | BIS certification under Scheme-I of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018 is mandatory. ISI mark is required for all domestic supply. |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license, complete lab testing via BIS-approved labs, affix ISI mark before sale or distribution. |
| Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced under the BIS Act, 2016. BIS is the statutory certification and enforcement authority. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Penalties include seizure, fines, suspension of license, or imprisonment up to 2 years, or both. |
| Conclusion | From 1 January 2024, all geocells for pavement reinforcement must be BIS certified and comply with IS 17483 (Part 2): 2020. |
| References / Annexures |
- QCO: S.O. 1706(E) [10 Apr 2023] - Amendment: S.O. 2331(E) [24 May 2023] - Enforcement Order: MoT [6 Oct 2023] |
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Notification
Geocells for Pavement Reinforcement have been brought under mandatory certification via the Geo Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022, notified through S.O. 1706(E) on 10 April 2023 by the Ministry of Textiles. This was amended via S.O. 2331(E) dated 24 May 2023, and final enforcement was confirmed as 1 January 2024 via Ministry Order dated 6 October 2023.
Overview
Geocells for pavements are 3D polymeric grid structures designed to reinforce the base and sub-base layers in flexible and rigid pavement systems. By confining granular materials, they distribute loads, reduce rutting, and enhance pavement life in roads, highways, and runways.
Objective & Scope
IS 17483 (Part 2): 2020 defines material specifications, structural behavior, seam strength, dimensional tolerances, and long-term durability criteria for geocells used in pavement reinforcement applications.
Products Covered
This standard applies to HDPE or polymer-based geocell systems used in:
- Highways and expressways
- Runways and taxiways in airports
- Unpaved and low-volume roads
- Defense and border road infrastructure
Exemptions Provided
Products manufactured only for export are exempt from the requirement of BIS license and ISI marking.
Industries Impacted
- Road & Highway EPC Contractors – For pavement stabilization
- Defense Road Development Agencies (BRO, MES) – For remote terrain roads
- Airport Authorities – In sub-base reinforcement of pavements
- Geosynthetics Manufacturers – Supplying BIS-compliant geocell systems
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
Starting 1 January 2024, manufacturers and importers must:
- Comply with IS 17483 (Part 2): 2020
- Obtain BIS license under Scheme-I
- Apply the ISI mark before selling in the Indian market
Next Steps for Stakeholders
- Submit application for certification to BIS
- Conduct testing in BIS-recognized laboratories
- Affix ISI mark on all geocell rolls/packs supplied in India
- Segregate and label export-only inventory clearly
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
As per the BIS Act, 2016, BIS has the authority to monitor compliance, conduct inspections, and take legal action. Non-compliance may result in:
- Seizure of non-compliant stock
- Fines or imprisonment up to 2 years, or both
- Suspension or cancellation of license
Conclusion
From 1 January 2024, all geocells used in pavement reinforcement must be BIS certified and conform to IS 17483 (Part 2): 2020. This ensures stronger and more durable road infrastructure by mandating quality geosynthetics for base and sub-base stabilization.
Ready to start your certification journey?
Let us help you navigate regulatory challenges and achieve certification with ease. Leave us your details, and we’ll get back to you—or request a free consultation today.