Evaluation of revegetation, slope plantings, and soil stabilization efforts on the Far Western Hills road

The evaluation, based on field-checks, focuses on the soils, geology, and landscape features (e.g., slope, vegetation) of road segments between Godavari and Dadeldhura. Four zones, each having reasonable landscape homogeneity, were delineated. Soils were evaluated for agronomic purposes according to the latest soil taxonomy (although they have not been correlated). Each zone is discussed with regard to soil type, incidence of landslides, and naturally occuring vegetation. Some 67,000 plants are reported by one nurseryman to have been planted to guard against landslides and help to stabilize the soil, although it was impossible to verify this figure. Of the 15 species of plants attempted, only four show success. Two local species (Utis and Ritha) show the greatest vigor, followed by Acacia deabata and kalki phul. Most of the plants that failed did so because they were out of their altitude range (e.g., one species which occurs naturally in damp forest soils was planted on dry south-facing slopes). No grass seedings had been attempted. Natural, vigorous revegetation of Chhir pine on steep, bare slopes was evident on many cut and fill slopes. Most Utis plantings on steep slopes, on the other hand, had been destroyed by landslides. Utis plantings were most successful on top of gabion structures; however, as Utis reaches maturity its roots will destroy the structures. All Utis trees growing on these structures should be girdled or cut off. (Adapted from ANE Executive Summary, PD-AAT-669, pp. 70-71.)