Use of Advanced Techniques for Abutment and Revetment in High Seismicity Zone: Case Study
摘要
The complex geographical condition of the Himalayan region makes it an ideal scenario for innovating new technologies. Also, the rich tectonic activity history creates a challenging atmosphere for the engineers to perform design and analysis using the most sophisticated techniques. Designing and commissioning new technologies is a challenging task. This paper presents a case study of one such scenario in the Himalayan region wherein bridge abutment has been replaced with Reinforced Earth® technology known as TechAbutment®. The project is situated near Sonmarg, Kashmir, which is in the foothills of the Himalayas. The abutment was replaced with a 23-m-high TechAbutment® wall. It was designed to cater to the loads of abutment in high seismic zone areas. Also, next to the TechAbutment® was a water body that channeled the water from the hill. An innovative solution called TechRevetment®, which is comprised of a geotextile mattress filled with concrete, was also placed to channelize the water from upstream. The major technical challenge in the design of TechAbutment® was the geology, seismicity and presence of water. The slope of the channel was also steep, which makes the design of TechRevetment® a challenging task as well. This paper highlights the detailed problem statement and design of TechAbutment® and TechRevetment® in areas of high seismicity and difficult terrain. It also highlights the challenges faced during the commissioning of TechAbutment® and TechRevetment®.