Identification of native vegetation for slope stability in the Southern Province, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Traditional civil engineering approach in stabilizing critical slopes requires lot of skills and, financial aid. It has been observed that the slopes having natural vegetation seem to be less vulnerable to slope failures, Vegetation is multi functional, relatively inexpensive, self-preparing, visually attiractive, and does not require heavy or elaborate equipment for its installation. Information on role of vegetation, rainfall influence and erosion are discussed for clear understanding and to mitigate the impact of slope failure on lives. Vegetation with common and scientific names and its root system are mentioned and soils or relevant slopes are classified in both common and engineering point of view.