Stability Analysis of Low-Cost Gabion Revetments for Adoption in Developing Countries: Insights from Field Investigations and Laboratory Experiments

Abstract

Gabions are wire baskets filled with rocks and play a critical role in various civil engineering applications. These include roadside stabilization, riverbank protection, erosion control in gullies, dams, reservoirs, and foundational support for structures. However, despite their importance, scientific research on gabion technology, particularly in developing countries like Nepal, remains limited. Key challenges include the durability and stability of gabion structures under adverse conditions. To address these gaps, the authors conducted laboratory experiments and field investigations along the Khar Khola River in Gorkha, Nepal. The laboratory experiments compared the performance of Japanese-style gabions and hybrid structures combining Japanese and Nepalese elements, both with and without geotextiles. Meanwhile, field investigations focused on evaluating gabion stability by measuring horizontal deformation. The findings revealed that constructed gabion revetments demonstrated negligible deformation across different designs, signifying high structural stability. However, ensuring long-term effectiveness requires careful installation of base foundations and launching aprons, especially after flooding events, which can destabilize soft foundations and cause bed scouring. The hybrid gabion, blending Japanese and Nepali techniques, emerged as a particularly effective alternative. This design demonstrated improved resilience and stability, retaining its structural integrity even after two years of exposure to flooding and environmental stressors, making it an adaptable and cost-efficient solution for developing regions.