Causes and character of movements of the loamy sand moraine in the foundation of the Plyavinyas hydroelectric station powerhouse

Abstract

Taking into account the available data on the geological structure of the foundation and physical and geological processes occurring, we should not rule out the possibility of new movements of the loamy sand moraine in its right-bank part. Under the established conditions it is necessary to take urgent measures to limit the continuing piping erosion of the Amata-Gauya strata with removal of sand through the vertical drain wells in the area near the station. The most radical solution would be maximum dispersal of water withdrawal with transfer of the center of the discharge zone to a greater distance from the powerhouse and complete cessation of the operation of nearby high-output wells.