Bioengineering techniques of slope stabilization and landslide mitigation

Abstract

PurposeMass movements, especially landslides, are a recurring natural phenomenon and are an integral part of any geological/geomorphological cycle of landform development through sequential development of slopes in any elevated region and especially in young fold mountain chains. The purpose of this paper is to develop and evolve cheap, affordable, environment friendly and ecologically sustainable techniques of landslide disaster management and prevention.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on extensive research and field observations of various landslide management projects over the past decade and includes an intensive review of literature from secondary sources.FindingsLandslide management aims to facilitate, and as far as possible accelerate the ongoing process of development on a sustainable basis, by preventing (reducing) the loss of lives and property by applying modern science and technology and taking appropriate measures and safety precautions at the right place at the right time. Landslide management, even in the most developed countries, has suffered from lack of adequate financial resources. Bioengineering offers an environment friendly and highly cost and time effective solution to the slope instability problems in mountainous and hilly areas.Practical implicationsThe paper aims to initiate and encourage research in the field of landslide management with the viewpoint that green technology is a clean and affordable technology (both financially and ecologically).Originality/valueThe paper shows that bioengineering is highly cost effective and has very high cost‐benefit ratio. Bioengineering techniques when used in combination with civil and social engineering measures reduce the overall cost of landslide mitigation considerably which is the key factor for developing nations. Bioengineering has a very high success rate and is much more sustainable, eco‐friendly and affordable than other available options.