Central Railway uses vetiver grass to prevent soil erosion in Mumbai-Pune ghat sections

Pilot plantation work has been carried out at two locations in the South-East Ghat section. Pic/ Central Railway

Central Railway is adopting an eco-friendly, nature-based solution using vetiver grass to prevent soil erosion and stabilise slopes in the Bhor and Thal Ghat sections, where monsoon conditions can pose risks to train operations.

The railway has undertaken pilot plantation work across 5,300 square metres in the South-East Ghat section as part of the initiative.

Vetiver to strengthen vulnerable slopes

The Bhor Ghat between Karjat and Lonavala and the Thal Ghat between Kasara and Igatpuri are vulnerable to soil erosion, surface runoff, boulder falls and shallow landslides during the monsoon.

These hazards can disrupt train operations and pose safety concerns.

Central Railway is now exploring the large-scale use of vetiver grass, scientifically known as Chrysopogon zizanioides, to naturally reinforce and stabilise vulnerable slopes.

Vetiver develops a dense, predominantly vertical root system that can grow three to four metres deep within 12 to 24 months.

According to Central Railway, the strong fibrous roots bind the soil and can increase soil shear resistance by around 30 to 40 per cent, helping reduce the risk of slumping and shallow slope failures.

Pilot plantations across 5,300 sqm

Pilot plantation work has been carried out at two locations in the South-East Ghat section.

At the Khandala - Monkey Hill section, near the UP line at Km 122/0 - 122/15, vetiver has been planted across 1,050 sqm.

Another plantation has been undertaken between Thakurwadi Cabin and Palasdhari, near the MID line between Km 106/600 - 700, covering 4,250 sqm.

Natural barrier against monsoon runoff

Under the Vetiver System, the grass is planted in contour lines along cutting slopes and embankments. Its deep roots help hold soil together, while the dense foliage slows surface runoff, reduces gully formation and helps increase water infiltration.

The vegetation also traps eroded sediment. Over time, the accumulated sediment can form natural terraces, providing additional stability to the slopes.

Focus on safer monsoon train operations

Central Railway said the nature-based approach is expected to help reduce soil erosion and slope instability, minimise instances of boulder and debris falling onto tracks and support safer and more punctual train operations during the monsoon.

The use of vetiver could also help reduce the maintenance costs associated with conventional slope-protection works.

Central Railway said it plans to integrate such sustainable measures with conventional engineering solutions to strengthen slopes and embankments while improving passenger safety and protecting the environment in ecologically sensitive ghat sections.