Abstract: Construction and maintenance of embankments form an integral part of every highway or railway projects which are keystones of the economy of our nation. In many locations good soil will not be available for the foundation and also for the construction of embankment. In such cases reinforcing soil with geosynthetic is a very effective and economic option. This paper thoroughly reviews the improvements in load settlement behaviour of embankments attained by inclusion of various forms of natural and polymeric geosynthetics. It is seen from literature that natural geosynthetics made with coir or jute can also be effectively used for improving the durability and stability of embankments.

Keywords: Embankments, Natural geosynthetics, Polymeric geosynthetics, Stability of embankments.