Innovative Measures to Combat Landslides on Lumding-Badarpur Railway
Introduction of Geobags to Mitigate Landslide Issues
HAFLONG, Aug 13: To address the ongoing landslide challenges on the Lumding-Badarpur hill railway segment, the Northeast Frontier Railway has initiated the use of geobags. Reports indicate that 1,000 geobags have been procured to help combat soil erosion and stabilize critical areas of the railway track.
This proactive measure aims to bolster the railway infrastructure, which has been significantly impacted by relentless monsoon rains and landslides. Various sections of the railway near New Harangajao have experienced severe soil erosion, with some areas witnessing the ground beneath the tracks being washed away, while mud, rocks, and debris have repeatedly fallen onto the railway line.
To tackle these issues, the Northeast Frontier Railway has deployed heavy machinery for debris removal, earth filling, boulder placement, and reinforcement of vulnerable sections. The introduction of geo-textile bags serves as an additional preventive strategy.
As per railway officials, these bags will be strategically placed in areas prone to erosion, filled with soil, sand, or other appropriate materials. They can be layered to secure loose earth and mitigate the direct impact of rainwater on susceptible slopes and railway formations.
Officials are optimistic that the geo-textile bags will offer temporary support to weakened areas while more permanent stabilization efforts are underway.
The situation at New Harangajao has already led to disruptions in train services. Both Line No. 1 and Line No. 2 have been impacted by soil settlement, while limited operations continue on Line No. 3. Train speeds and movements are being adjusted as needed based on weather and ground conditions, with ongoing monitoring of the affected sections.
However, persistent rainfall has complicated restoration efforts. In several cases, newly repaired sections have been affected by soil movement, necessitating repeated repairs by railway personnel.
Local residents have expressed concerns about the New Harangajao stretch, which has historically been vulnerable during the monsoon due to its steep slopes, loose soil, and heavy rainfall. They emphasize that, in addition to immediate repairs, long-term solutions such as enhanced drainage, slope protection, and reinforcement of the railway formation are essential for a permanent resolution to the issue.