ISSN : 2277-1328 (Online) - ISRM

24 ISRM (India) Journal
Recent Activities of Indian National Group
SEMINAR ON
“GEOTECHNICAL CHALLENGES IN
WATER RESOURCES PROJECTS”
19-20 January 2012, Dehradun (Uttarakhand)
Inauguration of the Seminar (L-R) Mr. B.C.K. Mishra, Dr. R.K.
Goel, Mr. M.M. Madan, Dr. K.G. Sharma and Mr. A.C. Gupta
A view of the dais during the Inaugural Session
Execution of multipurpose water resources projects located in complicated geological settings is a challenge to
engineers. Despite tremendous all round advancement in technologies, there is still scope to learn and know more
about the geotechnical challenges faced during excavations and its implications on design as well as execution. Both
design and construction engineers would always be keen to know what advancements are taking place in their
respective fields to face such challenges and utilize the knowledge for most economical and safe design for construction
of a project.
These projects require application of modern principles of rock mechanics, which warrants deliberations and collaboration
to facilitate flow of appropriate technology to enable successful implementation of such projects under a time-bound
programme in a cost-effective manner, conforming to environmental requirements.
Safety during tunnel and underground construction is of paramount importance not only to the stability of structures
but also to ensure safety of the work force. Safety in tunnels and cavities may be endangered due to sudden rock
falls, geological failures, collapse of underground opening or a part of opening, etc.
Considering the above, the Central Board of Irrigation & Power (CBIP) and the Indian National Group of International
Society for Rock Mechanics (ISRM), organised a Seminar on “Geotechnical Challenges in Water Resources Projects”
at Hotel Aketa, Dehradun on 19 and 20 January 2012.
The objective of the proposed Seminar was to provide a forum for the design and construction engineers to discuss
the solutions to various geological and geotechnical surprises encountered during the execution of various River
Valley Projects and use the knowledge for safe and economical design and construction of such projects.
The Seminar was co-sponsored by UJVN Limited.
62 participants from 26 organisations, including from Bhutan, participated in the Seminar.
The Seminar was inaugurated by Mr. B.C.K. Mishra, Director (Operations), UJVN Limited, on 19 th January 2012. The
Inaugural Session was presided over by Mr. M.M. Madan, Director (Hydel), GVK Group.
Papers/case studies on the following topics were presented and discussed during the Seminar:
Volume 1 No. 2 July 2012