Engineering geological characterization of low strength anisotropic rocks in the Himalayan region for assessment of tunnel support

A detailed engineering geological assessment of low strength (6–35 MPa) anisotropic rocks at an ongoing Hydroelectric Project in the Himalayan Region has been carried out. The project (the Nathpa Jhakri Hydroelectric Project) will have one of the world's largest and longest water conducting systems, consisting of a 10.15 m diameter and 27.3 km long head race tunnel, a 942 000 m³ underground desilting complex and a 20 × 49 × 216 m powerhouse cavern in the area. Because these constructions are made in low strength metamorphosed anisotropic rocks like quartz mica schists, biotite schists and muscovite schists, it seemed necessary and worthwhile to undertake a comprehensive study of such rocks. The studies include petrographic and petrofabric analyses of the rocks, geo-mechanical properties, rock stress measurements, rock mass classification using the Q-System and data concerning joint geometry, joint roughness and joint strength. The use of mapped geological and geotechnical data along with the experimental and modelling studies have helped to better understand the behaviour of these rocks in underground openings.