Evaluation of stability of dam and reservoir slopes - Mechanics of landslide

Detailed stability studies are carried out in landslide hazard prone areas. Initially the mode of failure is identified. Later back analysis is done for determining the strength parameters. Finally forward analysis is made for adjoining slopes in similar geological environment. The computed dynamic settlement of soil and rock slopes during design earthquake is a good criterion for assessing their safety. Hence, in certain cases, a factor of safety of less than one shall also be considered as just safe. Landslide crisis management can be better carried out by computer aided landslide analysis. A package of 18 software programs has been developed and tested extensively in seismic and fragile Himalayan region.