Author(s)

ROSHANA RAUT & OVE TOBIAS GUDMESTAD

Abstract

Bioengineering techniques are useful approaches to prevent landslides as they improve slope stability and maintain ecological balance. They are mostly suitable to be deployed in developing countries because of their cost effectiveness and environmentally friendly nature. This article discusses the landslide problems that many hydropower sites in Nepal face every year and the possibility of using various bioengineering techniques to cope with such problems. Despite a long history of bioengineering practices in Nepal, they have not been used properly in the hydropower sector. Mini-micro-hydropower plants are very common in Nepal and are specially constructed in sloping terrains for fulfiling the needs of electricity transmission to rural areas where landslides occurrence is very frequent. The application of suitable bioengineering techniques before/during the construction of hydropower plants can reduce the risks associated with landslides and help in increasing the lifetime of the plants. However, a successful bioengineering technique in those areas requires more scientific research and a good understanding of the factors that influence its effectiveness. Different aspects affecting bioengineering techniques are also presented in this article. The implementation of bioengineering techniques in this renewable energy sector will contribute to the sustainable development of the local community.

Keywords

bioengineering techniques, development, hydropower, landslides, Nepal