Geotechnical forensic investigation of a slope failure on silty clay soil—A case study

Abstract

Qila Bala Hisar is one of the noteworthy places of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The fort was constructed on a filled ground during the 18th century and it was renovated several times by the occupants ever since. Recently, due to an earthquake of magnitude 7.3, the upper part of the south-western wall of the fort collapsed. The collapse of the wall was attributed to the failure of the retained slope. This research was undertaken to characterize the slope material, study causal factors of failure and evaluate remedial strategy. The investigation involved conventional field and laboratory testing and geophysical investigation using electrical resistivity technique to evaluate the nature of stratum. Also, X-ray Diffraction and Scanning Electron Microscopy was used to study the slope material at a molecular level to evaluate the existence of swelling potential. The analysis has shown that excessive seepage of water caused by the poor maintenance of runoff and sewage drains is the causal factor triggered by the seismic event. A remedial strategy involving soil nails, micro piles and improvement of the surface drainage is recommended.

Keywords

forensic geotechnical investigation / slope failure / slope analysis / finite element method / numerical analysis / seismic loading / Qila Bala Hisar

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Acknowledgement

We bow our heads before Almighty Allah for providing us opportunity and resources to complete our research work. Our deepest gratitude goes to our respected teachers particularly our advisor Dr. Sarfraz Ali who supervised our thesis work on which this research paper is based. He has been a source of encouragement and the driving force behind this research. He contributed valuable ideas and helped us through his exemplary guidance and leadership. Special thanks to our parents for their never-ending love and prayers. To those who in some way contributed in this research, your kindness means a lot to us. The research was funded by the Military College of Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, Pakistan.

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