Landslide at Govindghat—Investigation and Stabilization Measures

A cloudburst and flash flood in June 2013 in the state of Uttarakhand, India caused landslide at Govindghat located along a major highway. Large boulders in soil matrix were encountered in the area. Water seeping through the open pores between the boulders and erosion of the soil was the major causes of the slope-failure. Erosion of the accumulated debris on the valley side during periods of high discharge in the area also added to the instability. The stabilization measures adopted include a secured drapery of rock anchors and steel mesh on the hill side, nailed gabions at road level, reinforced soil wall to ensure the desired road width, and river-side gabion wall for erosion protection.