Bamboo Bandalling Technique for River Bank Protection and Flood Control – A Critical Review

Abstract

River training is crucial for safeguarding river banks against erosion and preventing damage during floods. Various established methods like spurs, dykes, and revetments have been employed for many years. Researchers are currently investigating a novel river training approach known as bandal-like structures, aiming to demonstrate their cost-effectiveness as a potential alternative to existing structures. The bamboo bandalling technique effectively controls erosion and promotes sedimentation in rivers, reducing sediment loads. Biodegradable bamboo, readily available and cost-effective, ensures minimal harm to aquatic life. However, these structures require replacement after a single monsoon season, making them suitable for short-term river training in low-discharge, unsubmerged conditions. The current study analyzes scour around bandalling structures, emphasizing the need for further research to address discrepancies in velocity distribution and optimize scour control. Numerical simulation strengths and weaknesses highlight the suitability of Artificial Neural Networks, Genetic Algorithms, and Computational Fluid Dynamics for different aspects of the investigation.