Reinforcement of river dykes – Comparative Study in France – Brochure

Why reinforce river embankments today?

For centuries, embankments have been one of the mainstays of flood risk management. Their presence has a direct impact on the safety of many areas exposed to high water levels. However, embankment dykes face a combination of structural and environmental vulnerabilities over their lifetime. Built to withstand historical water levels that have now been far exceeded, they are subjected to more frequent and intense hydraulic stresses, leading to an increased risk of instability.

In 2025, ArcelorMittal commissioned Egis, an independent engineering and consultancy firm, to carry out a study aimed at evaluating several solutions for reinforcing the embankments, including, in particular, the sheet pile solution. The analysis was applied to a specific case: the reinforcement of the embankments along the Robine Canal, within the floodplain of the River Aude near Narbonne.

Why this study?

The analysis shows that the scheme is well accepted in terms of both landscape and social impact, as the existing embankment footprints are retained, whilst also offering a high level of watertightness. Finally, the ease of carrying out a raising of the existing embankment dyke using the self-supporting sheet pile solution, combined with the simplicity of maintenance, makes it a particularly suitable option for the current challenges of sustainable water infrastructure management.

The results show that the self-supporting sheet pile wall achieves the best overall performance.

This solution stands out due to a significant reduction in overall costs of more than 20 per cent, construction times reduced by up to 50 per cent and minimal land take.

It also ensures both the watertightness and stability of the structure, regardless of the condition of the existing embankment. Retaining the current dyke further promotes its integration into the landscape and its acceptance by local residents.