Ever since geo bags were started to be used, the product has been a game-changer in arresting riverbank and protecting beaches, also provides robust protection against floods. In this article we will discuss applications and advantages of geo bags. However, before beginning the discussion, let’s see what a ‘geo bag’ is. Geo bags are made out woven polyester and polypropylene fabrics, that are filled with sand and/or soil. Geo bags are generally used to build shore-protection structures. Now let’s look at four important applications and advantages of geo bags:
Prevention of Soil Erosion at River Banks
In countries with a large number of rivers like India, soil erosion is one of the biggest issues. Soil erosion is also one of the major causes of floods, deforestation, and loss of flora and fauna. Since their introduction, geo bags have played an instrumental role in prevention of soil erosion. They have proved to be more effective than traditional methods of arresting soil at riverbanks. Studies have shown that geo bags also help the wild animals in the forests to access water without slipping into the waterbodies. Moreover, preventing soil erosion effectively directly results in better soil retention and improved agricultural productivity in the surrounding areas.
Cost Effective Alternate for Curbing Floods
Conventional and modern techniques to curb floods involve high costs, making implementation of such measures less feasible. Geo bags provide a great alternative to such expensive techniques. A large number of geobags manufacturers in India like Emmbi provide high-quality geo bags, that can be used to build sandbag walls to divert the flood water or curb its flow. These sand-filled geo bag walls are not only cost effective to build, but also much more convenient to construct, without breaking any existing buildings or structures. These cost effective, easy-to-build walls can also be implemented in rainwater harvesting systems, which can be used in drought prone regions like Marathwada in Maharashtra.
Construction of Ports, Dams, and Harbours
Geo bags are extremely useful in the construction of ports, dams, harbours, et al, as they provide a strong, durable, sustainable, and sturdy resistance from strong flow of water. Resistance is one of the key elements in not only building these structures on and by the waterbodies, but also in preventing the waterbody in flooding the pathways of these structures. Geo bags can also be used in providing extra protection and strength to the bases of docks in regions where water current is higher.
Scour Protection of Groynes and Breakwaters
Groynes and breakwaters are built into the seas to protect the coastal areas from the force of waves. These structures get scoured over time, making them weak and rendering the coastal areas vulnerable. Geo bags can be of great use in protecting these structures and preventing any potential threats to the coastal regions. This enhances the life of the groynes and breakwaters, provides a cost effective solution, and also prevent sand erosion at the base of these structures.
