Revitalization of Rivers in India Draft Policy - Isha Guru Jaggi Vasudev

Revitalization of Rivers In India
Draft Policy Recommendation
steel. Therefore, vetiver roots are as strong as or even stronger than those of many
hardwood species that have been proven positive for slope reinforcement.
Vetiver grows quickly, becomes established under hostile conditions, and its very
deep and extensive root system provides structural strength in a relatively short
period of time. Thus, vetiver can be a suitable alternative to traditional vegetation,
provided that the following application techniques are learned and followed
carefully.
• Vetiver is very effective when planted closely in rows on the contour of
slopes. Contour lines of vetiver can stabilize natural slopes, cut slopes and
fill embankments. Its deep, rigorous root system helps stabilize the slopes
structurally while its shoots disperse surface run-off, reduce erosion, and trap
sediments to facilitate the growth of native species.
• Vetiver can grow vertically on slopes steeper than 150% (~56º). Its fast
growth and remarkable reinforcement make it a better candidate for slope
stabilisation than other plants.
• Another less obvious characteristic that sets it apart from other tree roots is
its power of penetration. Its strength and vigour enable it to penetrate difficult
soil, hardpan, and rocky layers with weak spots. It can even punch through
asphalt concrete pavement. Vetiver roots can be characterised as “living soil
nails” or dowels of 2-3 m (6-9 feet) depth, commonly used in “hard approach”
slope stabilisation work.
Combined with its ability to become quickly established in difficult soil conditions,
these characteristics make vetiver more suitable for slope stabilisation than other
plants.
d. Vetiver for Water Disaster Mitigation:
To reduce the impact of water related disasters such as flood, river bank and
coastal erosion, dam and dike instability, vetiver is planted in rows either parallel
to or across the water flow or wave direction.
Its additional unique characteristics are very useful:
• Given its extraordinary root depth and strength, mature vetiver is extremely
Annexures
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