Geo Textiles
Polymeric Strip (Geostrip) Used as Soil Reinforcement in Retaining Structures
Strategic Recommendations for Polymeric Strip (Geostrip) for Soil Reinforcement
Engage Early with BIS & Labs
Begin BIS licensing for IS 17372:2020 before the 1 Jan 2024 deadline. Conduct tensile, creep, and durability tests in BIS-recognized labs.
Partner with Compliance Experts
Work with the ERA Compliance Team for application filing, documentation, and ISI marking readiness.
Contact ERA Support Team
📧 cs@eraglobal.co.in | 📞 +91 9599296331 | 💬 WhatsApp
Support on BIS certification, lab testing, and handling export exemptions.
Track Notifications & Circulars
Subscribe to the ERA Newsletter for updates on Geo Textiles (QCO), 2022, S.O. 1706(E), S.O. 2331(E), and MoT orders.
Do a Gap Assessment
Evaluate existing geostrip specifications for tensile strength, creep resistance, and environmental durability to ensure compliance with IS 17372:2020.
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Polymeric Strip (Geostrip) Used as Soil Reinforcement in Retaining Structures |
| IS Standard | IS 17373:2020 |
| Title of IS | Geosynthetics – Polymeric Strip Used as Soil Reinforcement in Retaining Structures – 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 ensure mechanical performance and long-term durability of polymeric geostrips used for reinforcement in retaining structures. |
| Products Covered | Polymeric strips (geostrips) used in soil reinforcement applications for retaining walls, bridge abutments, embankments, and flyovers. |
| Exemptions | Products manufactured exclusively for export are exempt from ISI marking and BIS license. |
| Industries Impacted |
- Highway & Bridge Engineering - Retaining Wall Systems - Urban Infrastructure Projects - Geosynthetics Manufacturing Sector |
| Mandatory Compliance | BIS license required under Scheme-I of BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018. ISI mark must be present on all units sold in India. |
| Next Steps for Stakeholders | Apply for BIS license, complete product testing in BIS-recognized labs, affix ISI mark on packaging before sale/distribution. |
| Legal Framework & Enforcement | Enforced under the BIS Act, 2016. BIS is the designated authority for enforcement and surveillance. |
| Penalties for Non-Compliance | Includes seizure of stock, fines, cancellation of license, or imprisonment up to 2 years, or both. |
| Conclusion | Polymeric geostrips must be BIS certified under IS 17372:2020 with ISI marking from 1 January 2024 for all domestic applications. |
| 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
Polymeric Strip (Geostrip) Used as Soil Reinforcement in Retaining Structures has been included under the Geo Textiles (Quality Control) Order, 2022, issued by the Ministry of Textiles via S.O. 1706(E) dated 10 April 2023. It was subsequently amended by S.O. 2331(E) dated 24 May 2023, with final enforcement confirmed as 1 January 2024 through Ministry Order dated 6 October 2023.
Overview
Polymeric geostrips are high-strength synthetic reinforcement elements embedded within soil to form mechanically stabilized retaining walls, embankments, bridge abutments, and other soil retention systems. These strips improve shear strength, reduce settlement, and provide long-term stability in infrastructure projects.
Objective & Scope
IS 17372:2020 sets specifications for tensile strength, creep resistance, dimensional stability, and environmental durability of geostrips used for soil reinforcement. The standard ensures that these materials perform reliably under sustained loads in demanding field conditions.
Products Covered
This standard applies to polymeric strips (geostrips) used in:
- Reinforced soil retaining walls
- Bridge abutment and ramp structures
- Road and railway embankments
- Urban flyover and elevated corridor foundations
Exemptions Provided
Products manufactured exclusively for export are exempt from the requirement of BIS certification and ISI marking.
Industries Impacted
- Highway & Bridge Engineering – For stable retaining wall and approach systems
- Urban Infrastructure Projects – Flyovers, metro support walls, basement retention
- Railways & Industrial Parks – Earth-retaining structures in high-load zones
- Geosynthetics & Polymer Sector – BIS-compliant geostrip manufacturing
Mandatory Compliance Requirements
From 1 January 2024, all polymeric geostrips sold or used in India for soil reinforcement in retaining structures must:
- Conform to IS 17372:2020
- Be certified under Scheme-I of the BIS (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018
- Bear the ISI mark on all units/packages
Next Steps for Stakeholders
- Apply for a BIS license with technical documentation
- Conduct testing in BIS-approved laboratories
- Affix the ISI mark on all certified stock before market release
- Maintain separate inventory records for export-only items
Legal Provisions, Enforcement & Penalties
The Order is enforced under the BIS Act, 2016, with BIS responsible for certification and market surveillance. Penalties for non-compliance include:
- Seizure of products
- Suspension or cancellation of license
- Fines and/or imprisonment up to 2 years
Conclusion
Starting 1 January 2024, BIS certification and ISI marking are mandatory for all polymeric strips used in soil reinforcement of retaining structures under IS 17372:2020. This ensures quality and safety for mission-critical infrastructure across India.
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.