IIT Bhubaneswar organized a two-day workshop in collaboration with the International Geosynthetics Society (IGS), and the Indian Geotechnical Society, Bhubaneswar Chapter, on “ Hydraulic & Barrier Systems Using Geosynthetics” on November 11–12, 2025. The event brought together leading voices from academia and industry to examine how geosynthetics can support India’s infrastructure development in a rapidly changing climate.
Key contributors included Mr. Vikas Rastogi, who delivered an insightful lecture on “Latest Standards in Structural Waterproofing & Contemporary Geomembranes and Geosynthetics for PSP, Slope Protection, and Erosion Control.” Renowned for his extensive applied work in large-scale geosynthetic engineering, Mr. Rastogi’s session brought significant technical depth to the workshop. Drawing from his leadership role at Miraishield, India’s largest manufacturer of geomembranes for transportation tunnel systems, he emphasized the critical role of precision manufacturing and consistent material quality in achieving long-term structural performance and durability.
Important also were the contributions of Vikas Rastogi in placing into context how increasingly sophisticated geosynthetic products are influencing national priorities in rail, highways, and urban development. His insights mirrored emerging trends in material durability, quality assurance, and field performance.
As the deliberations progressed, Mr Rastogi's articulation on innovation and long-term sustainability struck a strong chord among the audience, essentially underscoring the role of industry-driven leadership for the advancement of geosynthetic engineering in India.
Prof. Gali Madhavi Latha from IISc Bengaluru, who played a pivotal role as the Geotechnical Consultant for the Chenab Railway Bridge, provided expertise on slope stabilization and structural safety, shared her insights on the Shear Behaviour of Geosynthetic Clay Liner – Sand Interfaces Under Static and Dynamic Conditions.
The workshop also featured insightful lecture sessions by eminent experts in the field. Dr. Shantanu Patra (IIT Bhubaneswar) delivered a session on the Application of Geosynthetics for Developing Sustainable Infrastructure, while Mr. Vivek P. Kapdadia (Secretary, Retd., Government of Gujarat) discussed the Application of Geosynthetics in Dams and Canals.
Prof. G. L. Sivakumar Babu (IISc Bangalore) shared valuable perspectives on the Advantages and Issues in Using Geosynthetics for Filtration, Drainage, and Barriers. Dr. Arindam Sarkar (IIT Bhubaneswar) presented his work on Erosion Characterization around Hydraulic Structures, and Mrs. Dola Roy Chowdhary (Founder, G-Cube) emphasized a Multidisciplinary Approach to Building Resilient Coastal Structures.
Their presentations collectively offered deep insights into material behavior, evolving design methodologies, and current research directions that are shaping the future of sustainable and resilient infrastructure engineering.