Demarcation of probable failure zones based on SMR and kinematic analysis

Abstract

Stability of the slopes along the rock cut on hilly roads are a major concern because slope failures lead to disruption of traffic and loss of property/life. The Markundi hill near Chopan, District Sonbhadra is characterized by moderate strength and highly jointed rock with rugged topographic features has experienced several episodes of rockfall activities. This geological phenomenon disturbs the traffic on SH-5 which is lifeline to eastern U.P., parts of M.P., Bihar and Jharkhand States of India. An attempt has been made to assess the present geotechnical condition of the rock mass and demarcate the nature and locations of possible failure using rock mass characterization techniques and kinematic analysis. On the basis of RMR values, section-1 and section-2 having poor to fair quality rock mass while on the basis of SMR investigation, section-1 and section-2 falls in partially stable to unstable class, respectively. Kinematic analysis suggests that slopes are unstable and wedge failures are commonly observed along both left and right slope sections.