MURSHID M 
NEERAJ NK 
RIYA RASHEED 
VINAYA P 

This study presents the numerical modelling and analysis of a cantilever retaining wall designed to
stabilize a laterite soil slope of approximately six metres in height at Valiyannur, Kerala, where
recurring instability occurs during monsoon seasons. The objective of the study is to evaluate the
structural response and overall stability of the retaining wall–soil system under realistic field
conditions using advanced numerical analysis. PLAXIS 2D, a finite element-based geotechnical
software, was used to simulate the retaining wall and surrounding soil by defining appropriate
material properties, geometry, and boundary conditions. The wall–soil interaction was incorporated
to capture realistic lateral earth pressure transfer and deformation behaviour. Displacement
contours, stress distribution, and deformation patterns were obtained from the analysis, and slope
stability was assessed using the Strength Reduction Method to determine the Factor of Safety. The
results confirm that the proposed retaining wall configuration effectively improves slope stability
in laterite soil conditions.

Keywords: Cantilever Retaining Wall, PLAXIS 2D, Laterite Soil, Slope Stability.