From The Hindu Archives, April 9, 1926: Preventing soil erosion

Extensive experiments have been carried about in Ceylon estates with a view of solving the problem of the denudation of the soil, particularly in hilly districts, says a correspondent in “The Statesman” writing from Colombo. Tea estates in India will no doubt, take the greatest interest in whatever methods are suggested to prevent soil erosion whether the suggestion comes from Agricultural Departments or from individual research workers. Many planters in Ceylon believe that the problem is now particularly solved by the system of ‘contour platforms’ which has been evolved by a well-known Sinhalese planter Mr. C.E.A Dias. This gentleman got the idea from Italy, where the vineyards on steep hillsides are planted according to the contour of the land and he improved this system further so as to prevent any erosion of the surface soil whatever.