Bioengineering technique can protect coast from erosion, says professor in IIT Indore

A novel bioengineering technique known as Microbially Induced Calcite Precipitation (MICP) is emerging as a promising and sustainable solution to tackle coastal erosion, signalling a shift from conventional engineering methods to nature-based approaches. Developed after successful laboratory experiments and recently patented, the technology is now undergoing outdoor commercial testing and could offer a new pathway to protect vulnerable shorelines, including the beaches of Visakhapatnam that are facing the problem of erosion.  

The technique employs the urease producing bacterial strain Sporosarcina pasteurii to strengthen loose coastal sand through bio-mediated calcite formation. Laboratory findings indicate that such treated samples exhibit improved resistance to rainfall- and wave-induced erosion, offering potential protection to coastal infrastructure and livelihoods. In simple terms, the coastal sand will turn into sandstone within a couple of weeks through the bio-mediation process. 

Explaining the significance of the research to the mediapersons during a media visit organized by Press Information Bureau in the second week of March, Institute Chair Professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology, Indore,  Neelima Satyam D. told The Hindu that coastal erosion remains a major environmental challenge in India. She referred to a December 2023 report in The Hindu that documented how a section of Baby Park along Beach Road in Visakhapatnam was washed away during high tides triggered by Cyclone Michaung. According to her, the newly-developed technique could help prevent similar damage in the future.  

Citing data from the National Centre for Coastal Research, she noted that nearly 34% of India’s coastline — around 7,500 km — is affected by erosion. Coastal land is gradually worn away by wave action, tidal currents, strong winds and drainage, while human activities such as dredging, coastal development and construction also accelerate the process.  

Traditional coastal protection measures broadly fall into two categories: hard and soft engineering methods. Hard engineering structures such as seawalls, groynes and breakwaters provide immediate protection but are expensive and often disrupt natural coastal processes. Soft engineering approaches like beach nourishment and managed retreat are more environmentally sustainable but require continuous maintenance.  

“In this context, we began exploring a sustainable, economical and eco-friendly approach to effectively mitigate coastal erosion,” Dr. Neelima said.  

The MICP-based bioengineering approach represents what researchers describe as a transition from “building in nature” to “building with nature.” Experimental findings showed that bio-mediated treatment significantly improved the strength and durability of coastal sand. Optimal reinforcement configurations were identified through strength and durability assessments before conducting erosion testing.  

Beyond shoreline protection, the research also has broader policy relevance. The technique supports India’s Blue Economy initiative and contributes to climate-resilient coastal infrastructure envisioned under the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and the National Coastal Mission. It also aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals such as Climate Action (SDG 13), Life Below Water (SDG 14) and Sustainable Cities and Communities (SDG 11).  

“Nature-based bioengineering solutions can help protect India’s coastlines while supporting sustainable development,” she added.