The role of engineering geology in the route selection, design and construction of a road across the Blue Nile gorge, Ethiopia

Abstract

The role of engineering geology in the final design and construction of a road crossing the Blue Nile (Abay) gorge in Ethiopia is described. This new road between Mekhane Selam and Gundewein is a strategic link in the Ethiopian road network and encounters very steep and difficult terrain that poses significant engineering geological challenges. Remote sensing, landscape modelling, reference condition classification, and conventional field mapping have been applied to assist in the finalisation of the alignment, the prediction of ground conditions for earthworks design, and the implementation of slope and drainage protection works. The approach adopted serves as a blueprint for other road construction and improvement projects in the region though limitations exist with respect to the prediction of variable volcanic rock sequences at depth without the benefit of ground investigation boreholes. Although ground conditions different from those predicted have been exposed along 15 % of the alignment, these have been of relatively minor significance and have necessitated unanticipated remedial action affecting less than 2 % of the alignment in the gorge. Thus far, the main damage to the road from geohazards has been caused by road-related effects, including the concentration of road drainage below culverts and seepages from broken and blocked side drains. The susceptibility of the terrain to uncontrolled runoff is such that preventative and reactive maintenance will be required throughout the lifetime of the road.