Numerical Analysis of a Collapsed Tunnel: A case study from NW Himalaya, India

Abstract

The present research explores the effect of various support system on deformation in a shallow tunnel from North-Western Himalaya, India. The deformation measurements assessed through field investigation were utilized to simulate the pre-existing and the present ground scenario, and furthermore in the evaluation of elastic parameters such as Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio through finite element back analysis. Back-analysed model predicted a Young’s modulus of 32 MPa and Poisson’s ratio of 0.3. Afterwards, the effect on the deformation of surrounding groundmass for unexcavated and the present condition were numerically ascribed at three different stages of excavation. The numerical application of forepoling and steel liners showed a marked reduction in the tunnel deformation. The combined effect of applied support methods was also enumerated and compared with individual stabilization method. This assessment may aid engineers and planners working in similar geological conditions, by making the excavation safer, stable and economical. © 2021, Indian Geotechnical Society.