Stability analysis and design of slope reinforcement techniques for a Himalayan landslide

Abstract

In the present study, slope stability analysis has been carried out for Pakhi landslide, atPipalkoti, Uttarakhand Himalaya, India. The site is situated alongside Chamoli-Badrinath National Highway (NH-58) in the Higher Himalayas. This route has immense importance due to its functional service for both the pilgrimage, and international border security. Because of its activeness during the monsoon season, Pakhi landslide poses recurring problems to the traffic. Slope stability analyses are performed by limit equilibrium and finite element method utilizing the engineering and physical parameters determined in laboratory tests. The slope is found to be just marginally stable, which calls for planning and design of suitable control measures to minimize the landslide activities. In view of this, further stability analyses are performed using limit equilibrium and finite element tools with single or composite scheme of control measures involving the application of soil nails and/or pile reinforcement at critical locations along the slope. The present paper also describes the design methodology and the significance of pile reinforcements as a novel technique for slope stabilization.

Landslide stability assessment along Panchkula–Morni road, Nahan salient, NW Himalaya, India

“…The gap-graded soils generally have excellent drainage Table 7. Friction angle (Bieniawski 1993) quality (permeability coefficient, K > 10 −3 cm/s) (Pandit et al 2016). The flowing water gives rise to seepage forces and water pressure which in turn reduce the frictional effect and decreases the instability of the soil:…”