IS 15284 (Part 1) provides a technical reference for the design and construction of ground improvement using stone columns. Stone columns are used in geotechnical engineering to improve weak or compressible ground before foundations, embankments and other structures are constructed. The standard is relevant to engineers, consultants and contractors responsible for designing and executing stone-column ground-improvement works.

What is IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2026?

IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2026 is the Indian Standard Code of Practice covering the design and construction of ground improvement by means of stone columns. The revised standard provides an engineering reference for professionals involved in improving ground conditions before the construction of foundations and other civil engineering structures.

Stone-column ground improvement generally involves forming columns of compacted granular material within comparatively weak soil. The treated ground can then perform as a composite system consisting of the original soil together with the installed stone columns.

Purpose of Stone Column Ground Improvement

Ground-improvement techniques are used where existing soil conditions require enhancement before construction. Stone columns are one of the commonly adopted geotechnical techniques for treating weak and compressible soils.

Depending on the site conditions and engineering design, stone-column treatment may be considered for improving the overall performance of the treated ground, managing settlement and supporting structures or infrastructure constructed above the improved soil.

Revision of IS 15284 (Part 1)

IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2026 is the First Revision of IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2003. The earlier edition was titled Design and Construction for Ground Improvement — Guidelines Part 1 Stone Columns.

BIS established the revised 2026 edition on 21 July 2026. The earlier IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2003 remains concurrently valid until 21 January 2027, after which it is scheduled to be withdrawn.

Who Uses IS 15284 (Part 1)

This standard is a working reference for:

• Geotechnical engineers: To assess, design and specify ground-improvement solutions involving stone columns.

• Foundation consultants: To coordinate foundation design with the engineering behaviour of improved ground.

• Ground-improvement contractors: To execute stone-column works in accordance with applicable engineering specifications and project requirements.

• Civil engineering consultants: To incorporate suitable ground-improvement requirements into infrastructure and building projects.

• Infrastructure developers: To reference standardized engineering practices when ground treatment is required for projects.

• Construction and quality teams: To verify that ground-improvement activities are carried out in accordance with project specifications and applicable standards.

Transition to IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2026

Organizations currently referring to IS 15284 (Part 1) : 2003 should review the revised 2026 edition and update applicable engineering specifications, project documentation and construction requirements during the transition period.

The previous 2003 edition remains concurrently in force until 21 January 2027. After this date, the earlier standard is scheduled to be withdrawn.

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