Cotton nets bolstering roads, bunds in Kuttanad

EDATHUA:( ALAPUZHA):  The use of cotton nets - coir geotextiles - for the construction of roads and bunds is gaining popularity in different parts of Kuttanad.The project, aimed at preventing soil erosion, was implemented in different wards of Edathua last year in association with the Kerala Industrial and Technical Consultancy Organisation (KITCO). Soil erosion is a common phenomenon in Kuttanad, affecting roads and construction of bunds.  “Soil erosion is high here because of floods which hit the area twice a year and the loose nature of the soil. We spend a large amount of money every year for road maintenance and the construction of bunds. The new technique will help stop soil erosion from both sides of the road, thus ensuring its longevity. Besides, the water channels are also made using this technique,” said Binu Issac Raju, chairman, Edathua panchayat development standing committee. The road from Edathua to Puvakkad was constructed using the technique last month. “The cotton nets made of ropes are spread on both sides of the road where the chances of soil erosion are high. The nets are then fixed to the soil using bamboo. Later, grass and tree saplings are planted so that the nets remain fixed and soil won’t be displaced from either side of the road. The KITCO authorities have promised increased longevity of the roads made using the technique. The road will be in good condition for more than four years. The roads are constructed under the NREGA programme,” Binu said.According to KITCO officials, the focus of the project is Kuttanad as soil erosion is high here.  “The technique will stop soil erosion from the roads and bunds. It is cheap and can be easily implemented. Many villages in Kuttanad have contacted us to know about the project. We are looking forward to implementing the project in all villages of Kuttanad,” a KITCO official said.