In a move to ensure punctual and safe train operations during the monsoon, Central Railway is adopting vetiver grass plantation to stabilize slopes and prevent debris from falling on tracks in critical ghat sections.

  • Central Railway will use Vetiver Grass to prevent soil erosion in Bhor Ghat and Thal Ghat.
  • The plant's roots penetrate 3-4 meters deep, increasing soil shear resistance by 30-40%.
  • This bio-engineering approach aims to reduce maintenance costs and prevent monsoon-related delays.

To mitigate the perennial risks of soil erosion and landslides during the heavy Indian monsoon, Central Railway is transitioning toward nature-based solutions. The organization has announced plans for the large-scale plantation of Vetiver Grass [Chrysopogon zizanioides] across vulnerable ghat sections.

According to Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, the Bhor Ghat (Karjat-Lonavala) and Thal Ghat (Kasara-Igatpuri) sections are particularly prone to surface runoff, boulder falls, and shallow landslips. These geological instabilities pose a significant threat to the safety of passengers and the punctuality of train services.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this shift toward bio-engineering represents a strategic move to reduce dependence on expensive and rigid concrete structures. By integrating living biological systems into railway infrastructure, the Central Railway is not only enhancing slope stability but also promoting biodiversity. This approach suggests a future where infrastructure and ecology coexist to improve operational efficiency.

Vetiver is recognized globally under the Vetiver System (VS) for its high-performance bioengineering capabilities. The plant develops a dense, predominantly vertical root system that can reach depths of 3 to 4 meters within 12 to 24 months. This fibrous network acts as a natural reinforcement, binding the soil and significantly reducing the risk of slope failure.

The Vetiver system transforms a fragile slope into a reinforced biological structure, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional retaining walls.

The railway has already initiated pilot projects to test the efficacy of this method. In the South-East Ghat section, plantations were carried out in the Khandala–Monkey Hill section (1,050 sq meters) and the Thakurwadi Cabin – Palasdhari section (4,250 sq meters). These hedges are planted in contour lines on cutting slopes and embankments.

The dense above-ground foliage acts as a porous barrier, slowing down surface runoff and preventing the formation of gullies. Over time, the trapped sediment helps in the formation of natural terraces, further stabilizing the slopes and minimizing the costs associated with conventional protection works.

Did You Know?: Vetiver grass is often called 'the miracle grass' because it can survive extreme drought, flooding, and even high salinity, making it ideal for harsh railway environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: How does Vetiver grass prevent landslides?
Answer: Its deep, vertical root system acts like biological nails, anchoring the soil layers together and increasing the slope's resistance to sliding.

Question 2: Which specific areas will benefit from this project?
Answer: The primary focus is on the Bhor Ghat (Karjat-Lonavala) and Thal Ghat (Kasara-Igatpuri) sections of the Central Railway.