Central Railway to opt for vetiver grass plantation to curb soil erosion in ghat sections

The Central Railway is considering planting vetiver grass to prevent soil erosion and landslides in ghat sections, where heavy rains pose severe challenges to train operations. Ghat sections, such as the Bhor Ghat (Karjat-Lonavala) and Thal Ghat (Kasara-Igatpuri), are particularly susceptible to erosion, surface runoff, boulder falls, and shallow landslides during monsoon season.

To address this issue, the railway authority plans to utilize vetiver grass, a high-performance bioengineering plant known for its ability to stabilize soil, reduce surface runoff, trap eroded sediment, and restore slopes. Vetiver grass features a dense, vertical root system that can grow up to 3 to 4 meters tall within 12 to 24 months.

The robust network of roots acts as a natural reinforcement, increasing soil shear resistance by 30 to 40%, and significantly reduces the risk of slumping and shallow slope failure. The railway has already conducted pilot plantations in the South-East Ghat section, covering up to 1,050 square meters, and in the Thakurwadi Cabin – Palasdhari section, covering 4,250 square meters.

The vetiver hedges are planted in contour lines on cutting slopes and embankments, with the deep root system anchoring the soil in place while the above-ground foliage creates a porous barrier to slow down surface runoff, prevent gully formation, enhance water infiltration, and trap silt. Over time, the trapped sediment aids in the formation of natural terraces, further stabilizing the slopes.

The Central Railway expects this eco-friendly solution to help prevent soil erosion and slope instability in ghat sections, minimize boulder and debris falling on tracks, ensure safe and punctual train operations during monsoon, and reduce maintenance costs associated with conventional protection works.