Karnataka   

‘Coir geotextiles can help prevent soil erosion’

Technology: P.K.H. Tharakan, Adviser to the Governor, at a workshop in Hospet on Thursday.

HOSPET: P.K.H. Tharakan, Adviser to the Governor, has urged mine owners to use coir geotextiles and coir pith in mines to protect the environment.

He was speaking after inaugurating a daylong workshop organised by Coir Board of India here on Thursday on applications of coir geotextiles and coir pith in mines. He wanted the Coir Board to come up with programmes to harness the State’s coir resources.

A.C. Jose, chairman of the Board, said that coir geotextiles could be used to check soil erosion or rainwater erosion of roads, railway embankments and hill slopes.

It would reduce the velocity of the flow of rainwater run-off . The product could be effectively used in soil stabilisation techniques during road construction and as a sub-base layer in village/rural road pavements, he said.

Keeping in view the vast potential for its use in Bellary district, which was the hub of mining activities, Mr. Jose said that the workshop was organised to create awareness among mine owners about the need to adopt coir geotextiles in mines to not only prevent soil erosion but also protect the environment.

Mr. Jose said that the Central Institute of Coir Technology in Bangalore could be asked for guidance on the kind of structure be needed depending upon the slope and the rainfall conditions.

M. Sudhakaran Pillai, joint director of the Board, welcomed the gathering. K.G. Raghavan, regional officer of the Board, proposed a vote of thanks.

Later, speaking to presspersons, Mr. Jose said that the Board had orders worth Rs. 6 lakh for supply of the material.

This was in addition to the exports that had been made to South Africa.

The Board would decide on setting up a production unit here depending on the demand for the material. It would impart training to local self-help groups for the purpose.

He said that instructions would be given to the coir institute in Bangalore in this regard.

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