Avalanche Protection, Bernese Oberland (BE)
Anti-avalanche structure below the Männlichen in the Bernese Oberland. Such structures are designed to break up the slope into small areas in order to prevent a mass of snow from building up. After the disastrous winter of 1950/1, in which 95 people died, a large number of such barriers were built. They were originally built of steel, as here; today a lighter aluminium version has been developed. However, since they usually have to be transported by helicopter, and are difficult to erect in the steep ground, they are expensive. For this reason they are generally used only where there is a threat to inhabited areas.
© swissworld.org
Please note our conditions of use.