Harnessing Vegetation as a Nature-Based Solution for Integrated River Corridor Management: A Path Towards Harmonized Human–Nature Synergy

Abstract

This review examines the role of vegetation as a nature-based solution (NBS) for sustainable river corridor management, integrating a wide range of interdisciplinary domains. It synthesizes studies addressing global challenges in river systems, the worldwide adoption of vegetation-based solutions and location-specific field observations from major Indian rivers such as the Brahmaputra and Ganga. This paper also reviews flume-scale experiments on vegetation–flow interactions and explores the biomechanical properties of vegetation, such as root reinforcement that contribute to riverbank stability. In addition, it discusses the selection of suitable species based on specific climatic regions, as reported in the literature. Building on this interdisciplinary understanding, this review highlights the vital role of vegetation in mitigating bank erosion, regulating sediment transport, attenuating floods and enhancing the overall health and resilience of riverine ecosystems and communities. It proposes an integrated framework that combines vegetation with biodegradable materials such as bamboo fencing and geo-bags and conventional engineering measures to address high-flow conditions and ensure long-term riverbank stability. Additionally, a flume-scale physical model study was conducted to investigate near-bank hydrodynamics in the presence of a series of three spurs and a combination of rigid and flexible vegetation. The results indicate that vegetation significantly reduces streamwise velocity near the bank, achieving performance comparable to that of the spur arrangement. This study identifies key challenges, including appropriate species selection, long-term maintenance of vegetation-based solutions and the need for adaptive management strategies. It further emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement for successful and sustainable implementation.