An inter-ministerial meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday decided to formulate guidelines for using vetiver grass, locally known as binna grass, to help prevent erosion of roads and embankments.
The meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s Office in the Cabinet Division of Bangladesh Secretariat, according to a press release issued by the PM’s Press Wing.
During the meeting, Dr Mohammad Shariful Islam, a teacher and researcher at the Department of Civil Engineering at Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), presented a proposal on the use of vetiver grass.
The meeting discussed the benefits of vetiver grass and its potential use in road and embankment construction projects across the country.
It also decided to form a technical committee, headed by Prime Minister’s Finance and Planning Adviser Dr Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, to conduct a detailed review and identify projects where vetiver grass could be used. Dr Mohammad Shariful Islam will be a member of the committee.
The meeting further decided to formulate guidelines on the use of vetiver grass in coordination with the Ministry of Planning.
Vetiver grass, also known as binna grass, is used in various countries to protect embankments from erosion. Its long, deep roots help bind soil and strengthen slopes, according to the proposal presented at the meeting.
The grass can withstand a range of harsh environmental conditions, including extreme heat and cold, and is known for its tolerance to waterlogging and salinity.
