India, Sept. 1 -- Central Railway has adopted an eco-friendly bioengineering solution using vetiver grass to tackle soil erosion and improve slope stability in vulnerable ghat sections, aiming to ensure safer and uninterrupted train operations during the monsoon.

According to railway officials, the Bhor Ghat between Karjat and Lonavla and the Thal Ghat between Kasara and Igatpuri are prone to soil erosion, surface runoff, boulder falls, and shallow landslides during heavy rains. Such incidents can threaten railway infrastructure and train operations.

To address the problem, Central Railway is exploring the large-scale use of vetiver grass, scientifically known as Chrysopogon zizanioides, as a natural method of stabilising slopes and emb...