Bioengineering used in Nepal with advantages, practices used in Nepal, and examples.

 What is bioengineering?

Bioengineering can be defined as an applied science that combines structural, biological and ecological concepts to construct living structure for erosion, sediment and flood control.

Bioengineering is the use of living structure in conjunction with non-living structure to reduce shallow seated instability and erosion.

Bio engineering offers an environmentally friendly and highly cost and time effective solutions to slope stabilization problems in mountainous and hilly areas.

It integrates the principles of ecology, hydrology, physics, and geology.

Advantages of Bioengineering ....

• Low cost
• Compatibility with environmentally sensitive sites
• low maintenance for well plants
• Benefit for wildlife habitats
• Aesthetics
• Water quality improvement

Bioengineering Practices used in Nepal

• Brush layering
• Palisades
• live Check dams
• Grass seeding
• Turfing
• Fascines
• Jute netting

Examples of Bioengineering in Nepal are:

1. A steep cut slope in a weak sand deposit on the Naubise- Mugling road (central Nepal stablishing with jute netting and grass planting

1. A typical cut slope in deep colluvium on Dharan-Dhankuta road (Eastern Nepal), stablishing using a combination of gabion toe wall and bioengineering.

• Selection of right technique in right place is very important in bioengineering.

Principle for species Selection

• Locally available species are preferred as they are adopted well in local climate and disease

• Should have good rooting system

• Can easily Propagate 

Note: Exotic species should be avoided because they may become weed or they may become prone to insect attack. examples: Ipil Ipil, Banmara

Some of the preferred species of Bioengineering species in Nepal are:

Grasses: Amliso, Babio, Kans, Khar, Narkat, Padang Bans, Khus ... etc.

Shrubs and small trees: Areri, Assuro, Bains, Bhujetro, Dhayero, Kande phul, Simali, etc.

Bamboos and Trees: Tama bans, Kalo bans, Tharu Bans, Kalo siris, Khayer, Painyu, Phaledo, Salla, Rato siris, Seti Siris, Sisau, Utis,etc.

Note: Continuous, Seasonal or regular maintenance should be done such as:

• Protection of Site
• Weeding
• Mulching
• Watering

Conclusion:

Bioengineering is one of the best methods for slope stabilization. It continues to be developed in many parts of Hindu Kush Himalayan region. Local resources and local skills should be used to promote bioengineering. 

Bioengineering in Nepal