Rock cut slope excavated for Settling basins of Seti Khola Hydropower Project

Abstract

Stability of a cut-slope at the headworks area of the hydropower projects is very important for smooth operation of hydropower plant. Underestimation during construction period may bring a catastrophic consequence. This manuscript presents overall assessment results of the rock cut slope excavated to accommodate two settling basins of Seti Khola Hydropower Project (22MW) located at Lekhnath, Kaski, Nepal. The height of the cut slope is about 50 m and is among the most challenging part of the construction work. The cut slope is excavated in a highly schistose and deformed phyllite with interbedding of metasandstone layers. The evaluations are made on the overall rock mass and discontinuity characteristics. The results of detailed stability assessment using software program SLIDE in consideration with both normal and seismic loading conditions are presented. Final rock support measures are proposed to ascertain long-term stability of the cut-slope.