Analysis of Slope Failures on Sagam–Inderwan Road and Suggested Remedial Measures

Abstract

Slope failure is one of the frequent geological events occurring along the road network in the hilly areas of Kashmir, creating inconvenience to the public and huge expenses for repairs, maintenance, and stabilization measures of such roads. This work presents the results of investigations and analyses for two failed slopes on Sagam-Inderwan road located in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir. The main purpose of this research was to evaluate the safety status of these slopes. The soil data obtained from DST tests was used as input in the SLOPE/W software using limit equilibrium method. The FOS values obtained in the study range from (0.655–0.827) at Rd 500 m and (1.796–2.601) at Rd 1200 m. The FOS was also calculated manually to compare the results with software. Back analysis was also done to find the actual strength mobilized at the time of failure. The conclusions derived from the analysis suggest that the slope at Rd 500 m is unsafe and the slope at Rd 1200 m is marginally safe. The factor of safety obtained after using shear strength parameters from back analysis at Rd 500 m was less than 1.5 indicating slope is at risk of failure and needs stabilization.