Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

1) INTRODUCTION
1.1Project Description
1.2 Salient features
1.3 Geotechnical risk report
2) NATM
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Seven important features of NATM
2.3 Broad Principles of NATM
2.4 Description of NATM
2.5 Suitability of NATM over TBM
2.6 Components and sequence of execution in NATM

3) GEOTECHICAL AND GEOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF T-74R

3.1 Introduction
3.2 Methodology of field work/ Borehole Drilling
3.3 Regional geology
3.4 Geology along tunnel alignment
3.5 Subsurface exploration by Drill holes
3.6 Engineering Classification of Rock Mass
3.7 Geotechnical discussion

4) Tunnel monitoring
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Pressure cell data and graphs
4.3 Strain meter data and graphs
4.4 Deformation Monitoring point
4.5 Multipoint Extensometer

5) Conclusion
6) Photo Gallery

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

CHAPTER 01
INTRODUCTION

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Scarcity of land is leading us to find new innovative construction methods such as
underground structures as lot of congestion is taking place nowadays. As the growth
of the cities continues, abundant infrastructures will be needed and it raises
enormous demand for underground structures. Sustainability is not possible
without the infrastructure and that, often, the best form of infrastructure involves
the underground, and underground structure must be accelerated with safety and
quality in order to provide the abundant infrastructure required for development.
At present underground structures especially tunneling have become very
important aspect of CIVIL ENGINEERING in vast variety of fields. With the
advancement of technology new tunneling method including mechanization of
various activities involved in tunneling have been evolved. NATM has been
developed in Austria from where it has got its name. This method makes use of
providing flexible primary lining of shotcrete, wire mesh, rock bolts and lattice
girder. In case of a weaker rock mass the use of pipe for pole/pipe roofing is also
used for crown support which in turn leads to less over break as well as ensure
safety during the execution of actual work. The main aspect of approach is the
dynamic design based on rock mass classification as well as the in-situ deformations
observed, hence more economical use of the tunnel support system along the
rational approach of execution.
With a view to provide a more reliable and alternative transport system to Jammu &
Kashmir, government of India planned a 345Km long Railway line connecting the
Kashmir with rest of Indian Railway network. The project has been declared as a
project of National importance.
The alignment of this Railway line runs through young Himalayas, tectonic thrusts
and the faults. The length from Udhampur to Baramulla is 292Km and has been
divided into three sections, details of which are as under:
Table: 1.1 The details of three sections of USBRL project.
Items

Length(km)
Important/major
bridges
Minor bridges

(Section1)

(Section2)

(Section3)

Udhampur-Katra

KatraQuazigund

QuazigundBaramula

25

148

92

29

27

Tunnel length(km)

10.9

No. of stations

109.54
12

Total

119

292

64

165

640
-------15

696
120.44
30

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Leg-1: Udhampur-Katra(25 km)

Executing Agency: Northern Railway
Udhampur-Katra section is 25 km long and involves 11 km of tunneling, 9
important/major bridges,
29 minor bridges and 10 ROB/RUBs in addition to about 38.86 lac cum of
earthwork. The approx. cost of this stretch is Rs. 640 crores. The tallest
bridge in this section is 90 meter high(br no 20) and the longest tunnel is
3.15 km long. All the tunneling as well as bridge works have been completed.
However, problem of squeezing and swelling was faced in tunnel (T-1) due to
expansive soil conditions, after completion of tunnel boring work. To tackle
this problem, Railway has engaged the services of M/s RITES-geo consult (a
joint venture between M/s RITES and M/s geo consult, an internationally
renowned tunnel consultancy firm based in Austria). The consultant has
given the revised scheme of construction of a new diversion tunnel. This
tender for construction of diversion tunnel has been opened on 10.9.2009
and is under finalization. The target for this leg has been revised to
December, 2011.
Leg-2: katra-quazigund(148 km)
This leg is the toughest section, full of tunnels and bridges/viaducts that has
been constructed on the Indian railways. The terrain in this region is full of
poor geology and faults .tunneling and bridging is a challenge greater than
that was met on Jammu-Udhampur or Udhampur-katra section and will be a
matter of pride for the engineers of Indian railways.
The stretch between river Chenab and Banihal is passing through a virgin
territory and requires construction of about 262 km of access roads. About
145 km of access roads have already been constructed(T-80, pirpanjal
tunnel).this tunnel is 10.96 km long and pierces through the Pirpanjal range
below the snow line. This work on katraQuazigund section was started in
november 2002 and the present progress is about 13 percent. The engineers
working on this section are facing multifarious problems due to extremely
difficult and inaccessible terrain and technical problems. This project is
perhaps the most difficult new railway line project undertaken on Indian
subcontinent. The terrain passes through young Himalayas, which are full
geological surprises and numerous problems. The execution of the work has
been divided among three agencies as under4

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

1. Northern railway for first 5 kms

2. KRCL for next 71 kms
3. IRCON for next 73 kms
The progress of works from km 30 to km 144 has been very slow due
to many failures in

tunnels/tunnel portals. In view of the difficulties being faced due to adverse

geology in the region, Railway board conveyed their decision to review the
alignment from Katra to Banihal. On Railway boards directions, M/s IRCON
appointed an International Consultant (M/s Amber Engineering Ltd.,
Switzerland) for the purpose of studying the alignment.

1.2 SALIENT FEATURES:

Table 1.2: The project has many special and unique features and several first
in Indian Railways.

Item

Udhampur-Katra

Katra-Quazigund

Max.Curvature(degr
ee)

2.75

2.75

2.75

Maximum height of
bridge(m)

85m

359m

13

465m steel arch

over the river
Chenab

45m

3.15

11.21

-------

Max. depth of
bank(m)

21

55

9.7

Max. depth of
cutting(m)

20

40

12

Alignment on
curvature

14%

37.83%

14.66%

Longest span(m)

Longest tunnel(km)

154m steel
girder over the
river Jhajjar

QuazigundBaramulla

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

The project is one of the most difficult projects under taken on Indian
subcontinent. The terrain passes through young Himalayas, which are full of
geological surprise and numerous problems. For execution purpose, project
has been divided into three sub-sections. Construction progress is on its way.
Katra Quazigund leg is most difficult stretch of this project. The alignment
of this stretch which is 148Km long passes through Patni and PirPanjal
ranges.
This alignment requires construction of 92 important/measures bridges and
27 minor bridges, the alignment also requires, interlaid construction of 65
number of tunnels, totaling to a length of 110Kms bringing the percentage of
the total length of the alignment on tunnel to approx. 76%.

1.3 Geotechnical risk report (T 74 R)

The main objectives of the geotechnical risk comprise the
identification, description and assessment of the geological and
geotechnical risk associated with ground conditions that strongly
influence the relevant structure of the project and the construction
process. It also includes the geological characteristics of the project
area.
Data basis used for the analysis
1. Geological and remote sensing by geological survey of India.
2. Geological map (1:25000)
3. Geomorphological map (1:25000)
4. Tectonic map (1:25000)
5. Drainage map (1:25000)
6. Geological report
Methodology for the geotechnical analysis focusing on the risk
assessment:
1. Preconstruction survey from katra-Quazigund new BG rail line
project(phase 1 and 2), km 30-km 168 for the basis for the
geotechnical and geological risk study and this analysis is carried
according to following general procedure:

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

a>Investigation of geological conditions which includes study of

geological maps, site visits etc.
b>Geological characterization of the project area
c> Establishment of characteristic ground type which is representative
of whole project area.
d>Allocation of the ground type to the alignment
e>Identification of general geotechnical hazards and definition of
geotechnical key parameters relevant for each particular hazard.
f> Allocation of geotechnical hazard to the alignment
g>Definition of different types of construction measures for tunnel,
tunnel portals, open cuts, embankments and bridges.
h>Identification and quantification of the risk of occurrence of
unexpected faults, ground water conditions and landslides.
i> Influence of construction measures on geological conditions.

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

CHAPTER
02
NATM

Introduction
NATM was first described as the modern tunneling method by Rabcewick.
This method was developed in Austria from where it got its name. This
method makes use of primary flexible lining of shotcrete, wire mesh, lattice
girders, rock bolts. In case of weaker rock mass the use of pipe fore pole/pipe
roofing is also used for crown support which leads to less outbreak and
ensures safety during the execution of the actual work. The main aspect of
NATM is the dynamic design based on the rock mass classification as well as
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

in-situ deformations observed, hence more economical approach towards the

design along with the rational approach of execution.

The New Austrian Tunneling Method includes a number of techniques for safe
tunneling in rock conditions in which the stand-up time is limited before
failure occurs. These techniques include the insect: smaller headings and
benching or the use of multiple drifts to form a reinforced ring made which
the bulk of the tunnel can be excavated. These techniques are applicable in
soft rocks such as shales, phyllite and mudstones in which the squeezing
and swelling problems are likely to occur. The techniques are also applicable
when tunneling in excessively broken rock, but great care should be taken in
attempting to apply these techniques to excavations in hard rocks in which
different failure mechanisms occur.

The NATM is rather a concept or philosophy than a construction method,

where the surrounding soil - or rock mass of a tunnel is integrated into the
overall support structure, the rock is activated to a load bearing ring around
the tunnel. Old conventional tunneling methods considered the rock mass
surrounding the tunnel only as a loading member.

In NATM the initial tunnel support consisting of shotcrete, reinforced by wire

mesh or steel fiber, possibly steel ribs and rock bolts, is installed in close
contact with the rock surface to form a composite structure. The composite
system rock (soil)/supporting elements allows the control of deformations to
achieve stress release and stress redistribution around the tunnel. It also
limits the loss of natural rock/soil strength in order to maintain the carrying
capacity of the rock arch around the tunnel.During construction continuous
geotechnical measurements and controls are carried out to monitor the
stress re-arrangement process, to control stability and to optimize the
supporting system, construction sequence and to verify the rock
classification. NATM represents the state of the art in modern tunneling. Its
concept makes NATM more economical than conventional means of
tunneling.

Seven Important Features of NATM

1. Mobilization of the strength of the rock mass.
2. Shotcrete protection
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Measurement
Lining
Closing of invert
Rock mass classification
Dynamic design.

BROAD PRINCIPLES OF NATM

NATM is broadly based on following principles:
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Mobilization of the strength of the rock mass: the method relies on the
inherent strength of rock mass being conserved as the main component of
tunnel support. Primary support is directed to enable the rock to support
itself.
Shotcrete protection: loosening and excessive rock mass deformation
should be by filling a layer of 25-50mm of sealing shotcrete immediately
after opening of the face.
Measurements: Every deformation of the excavation must be measured.
NATM requires installation of sophisticated instruments. These are embedded
in lining, ground such as load cells, extensometers and reflectors.
Primary lining: The Primary lining is thin. It is active support and the tunnel
is strengthened not by thicker lining, but by flexible combination of rock
bolts, wire mesh and lattice girders.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Closing of invert:- Early as far as possible closing the invert so as to

complete the arch action and creating a load bearing ring is important.it is
crucial in soft ground conditions.
Rock mass classification: - The participation of the expert geologist is very
important as the primary support as well as the further designing of the
support, etc.during the excavation of the rock requires classification of the
rock mass.
Dynamic design: - The designing is dynamic during the tunnel
construction .Every face opening classification of rock is done and the
support are selected accordingly. Also the design is further reinforced based
on the deformation as noticed during the monitoring.
Lauffer(1958) proposed that the standup time for an unsupported span is
related to the quality of the rock mass in which the span is excavated.in a
tunnel, the unsupported span is defined as the span of the tunnel or the
distance between the face and the nearest support, if this is greater than the
tunnel span. Lauffers original classification has since been modified by a
number of authors, notably pacher at al (1974), and now forms part of the
general tunneling approach known as the New Austrian tunneling method.
The significance of the standup time concept is that an increase in the span
of the tunnel leads to a significant reduction in the time available for the
installation of support. For example, a small pilot tunnel may be successfully
constructed with minimal support, while a larger span tunnel in the same
rock mass may not be stable without the immediate installation of
substantial support.
The new Austrian tunneling method includes a number of techniques for safe
tunneling in rock conditions in which the standup time is limited before
failure occurs. These techniques include the use of smaller headings and
benching or the use of multiple drifts to form a reinforced ring inside which
the bulk of the tunnel can be excavated. These techniques include the use of
smaller headings and benching or the use of multiple drifts to form a
reinforced ring inside which the bulk of the tunnel can be excavated. These
techniques are applicable in soft rocks such as shales,phyllite and
mudstones in which the squeezing and swelling problems, described by
Terzaghi (discussed in next coming chapter), are likely to occur. The
techniques are also applicable when tunneling in excessively broken rock,
but great care should be taken in attempting to apply these techniques to
excavations in hard rocks in which different failure mechanisms occur.
In designing support for hard rock excavations it is prudent to assume that
the stability of the rock mass surrounding the excavation is not time
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

dependent. Hence, if a structurally defined wedge is exposed in the roof of

an excavation, it will fall as soon as the rock supporting is removed. This can
occur at the time of the blast or during the subsequent scaling operation. If it
is required to keep such a wedge in place, or to enhance the margin of
safety, it is essential that the support be installed as early as possible,
preferably before the rock supporting the full wedge is removed. On the
other hand, in a highly stressed rock, failure will generally be induced by
some change in the stress field surrounding the excavation. The failure may
occur gradually and manifest itself as spalling or slabbing or it may occur
suddenly in the form of a rock burst. In either case, the support design must
take into account the change in the stress field rather than the stand up
time of the excavation.

2.4 Description of T-74 R

The tunnel T-74R extends between chainage 124,200km at south portal to
chainage 132.840km at north portal having a shaft and an adit.The total
length of this tunnel is 8.64km from portal to portal. The estimated project
cost is 800 crores INR.Fault lines in case of young Himalaya are the main
challenge for tunnel construction in pirpanjalrange. The tunnel consists of a
main tunnel and an escape tunnel which are connected by CPBs at suitable
intervals making a total of 7 CPBs in the total tunnel length. The length of
escape tunnel is shorter than main tunnel. Escape tunnel is provided for
emergencies which may happen during traffic operations.
The center to center distance between main tunnel and escape tunnel is 2030 km .During the construction of t-74R, sump well and pumping system of
drainage has been used .Two air ducts were provided for defuming and
ventilation purpose. The main method of excavation was drill and blast,
however heading and benching was adopted at places.

2.5 Suitability of NATM over TBM

1.

TBM design requires reliable geological information in the initial stage

itself and there is always likelihood of mixed-face excavation in
PirPanjal.

2.

There is also heterogeneous geology in soil near portals to trap and

quartzite in middle which is not well suited for TBM.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

3.

Heavily faulted areas and/or wide fault ones are also expected, TBM
may be trapped by ground movement behind the face.

4.

High squeezing is anticipated in the middle zone with 1150 overburden

and likelihood of heavy water inflow in the limestone zone with heavy
overburden.

5.

Retrieval of TBMs approaching each other requires large cavern.

6.

TBM obstructs final lining for a long time.

7.

Non circular sections cant be achieved after enlargement later.

8.

TBM requires specialized skilled crew and also there is heavy

requirement of electric power.

Because of all these reasons NATM was selected for tunneling in PirPanjal
instead of TBM.

2.6 Components and sequence of execution in NATM

The various steps of execution of tunneling in NATM are as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Face drilling
Loading/charging and blasting
Defuming
Mucking
Profiling(by total station0
Shotcreting
Erecting lattice girders.
Rock bolting

Face drilling includes the drilling of holes for the gelatin explosive
horizontally in the face of tunnel at every section to be blasted. The holes are
usually drilled in the of 25mm,32mm or 40mm diameter , dependingon the
diameter of explosive pallet/rod to be used. Only a few of the holes drilled in
the tunnel face are actually charged with explosive, rest of them are left as
dummy holes which is very important to maintain the profile of tunnel
section and avoid irregular cutting, over break and undercutting as much as
possible.
Charging is the second step of tunneling after drilling holes. It involves
loading the particular holes with gelatin explosive. After covering the face
with some fiber to prevent scattering out of the stone pallets which may
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

cause hazard, the charge is detonated by different methods which may be

electric detonator or it can be NED(non electric detonator).
Defumingmeans removal of dust from the dig out tunnel which is generated
by the blasting of rock. Defuming is done with the help of ventilators already
installed in the tunnel usually for one hour. Defuming is necessary to
maintain the working condition inside the tunnel as fresh air,visibility,etc.
Mucking involves the removal of large amount of broken rock materials
which is formed blasting and dumping the same into muck yard. Large no of
loaders, excavators, trucks and dumpers are used to assist the process. After
mucking is complete, chipping and filling of overcut is done. For chipping
boomer, and rock breaker is used, overcuts are filled by shotcrete. After this
step is complete, profiling using total station is again done on the new face
exposed.
Shotcreting A primary layer of shotcrete is applied immediately after the
mucking is complete. Its thickness is usually 50mm and it consists of M20
concrete reinforced with steel fiber
(SFRC). Primary shotcrete is very important for stability of loosened rock
caused by the blast due to drilling and blasting and to form a uniform lining
of tunnel.
Erection of lattice girders and rock bolting : In case of weak rock
classes the standup time is less and self-supporting property is lacking ,
hence lattice girders are necessarily installed/erected to support the rock
mass. The frequency of lattice girders depends on rock class as well. For
class 5 usually heavy steel girders with a spacing not greater than 0.9m is
used. While as for class 4 lattice girders spaced not greater 1.5m apart were
used. In case of rock class 4 fore polling is also needed,Rock bolting is one of
the unique and important features of NATM. Rock bolts are used to anchor
different strata of rock together to prevent rock from collapse. The plastic
region generated by blasting operation is anchored to the stable rock
sections at deeper levels.
Different types of bolts and nails are driven into the side walls and crown of
the tunnel as per design and requirement which is governed by the
geological condition of the tunnel.
The different types of rock bolts used in tunnel 74-R are discussed below:
1. SN Rock Bolt:
Soil nail rock bolt are 4-5m long Fe-415 bolts of diameter 25mm32mm used in tunnel rock bolting commonly. It is simply nailed into
15

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

the tunnel wall with the help of boomer. These are cheaper than
other types of rock bolts.
2. Swellex Rock Bolts:
These rock bolts are used at places where too much water comes
out of tunnel wall. This type of bolts is swelled once it is inserted
into the wall with the help of a water jet at high pressure. Diameter
varies from 25-32mm, and length varies from 4-6m.
3. SDA/SDR Bolt:
Self-Drilled Anchor comes with a tungsten carbide alloy bit at its tip
which helps to drill in this bolt into the tunnel wall. SDA is used at
places where Sn bolts cant be driven due to crushed rock mass and
collapse of drilled holes. Diameter of SDA 25mm to 76mm and
length ranges from 4-6m.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

CHAPTER 03
GEOTECHNICAL AND
GEOLOGICAL
INVESTIGATION OF T74R

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

3.1
Introduction
This chapter includes results of shallow and deep boreholes,
geological logs, and laboratory test results of representative rock
core/samples, standard penetration test (SPT) besides geological
studies around the tunnel T-74 alignment area.
Objective and scope of work:
The objective of the investigation for tunnel T-74R is to generate
a report incorporating subsurface geological data collected from
different boreholes together with limited surface geological
studies carried out along the tunnel alignment.
Another important objective was to prepare geological logs of the
completed boreholes and to prepare geological sections along
the tunnel alignment for future reference and records.
3.2

Methodology of field work:

BOREHOLE:
In total 9 numbers of boreholes, 4 deep and 5 shallow have been
drilled along the tunnel alignment area. Most of these boreholes
have been drilled upslope of the alignment and projected on the
actual tunnel alignment for interpretation and preparation of
geological section. Layout plan of drill holes is attached as fig 3.1
in this report. The summary of boreholes with depth and location
is given in table 3.1.
BOREHOLE DRILLING:
Wire-line rigs which are hydraulic operated are used. Drilling is
carried as per IS 1892 -1979.
Equipment:
Following equipment were used for the execution of the work:
1. Drill rig with accessories and mud circulation pump.
2. Casing of required size.
3. NX size core barrel.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Table 3.1: The summary of boreholes with depth and location

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Sr.No.

Borehole
No.

Elevation

1867.525

Coordinates

Chainage(K
m)

Formation
level (invert)
(m)

Depth(m)

N3695043.383

125.790

1564.097

315.00

128.382

1593.968

415.00

128.759

1598.582

62.00

129.153

1603.317

520.00

132.460

1642.450

60.20

132.496

1642.075

45.10

133.018

1648.856

36.00

133.031

1649.703

85.20

133.089

1649.703

85.20

(m)

E512930.391
2

1989.339

N3694573.992
E515062.361

1915.916

N3694397.190
E515402.385

2112.570

N3694179.892
E515732.904

5A

1692.707

N3694957.932
E517665.796

5B

1677.039

N3694992.593
E517711.077

1712.743

N3695576.809
E517796.357

6A

1712.473

N3695578.950
E517796.388

1723.913

N3695576.950
E517796.388

Field Execution:

Wire-line rig is used for drilling. The diameter of the borehole in soil was
100/150mm. Casing was used to protect the bore hole from the side
collapse. Initially guide casing is provided and further boring was carried out
of 100/150mm dia. size in soil. SPT, DS I conducted as per specification or as
per direction of engineer in charge. Whenever rock is encountered, NX/NQ
core barrel is used to collect the rock samples. The SPT, DS and rock sample
are preserved into core boxes with labels. Rotary drilling machines uses a
rotary action combined with downward force to grind away the material in
which a hole is being drilled.
Rotary drilling machine requires a combination of a number of elements
1. A drilling machine or a rotary drill at the ground surface which delivers
torque and thrust.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

2. A flush pump, which pumps the fluid down the hole in order to cool the
mechanical parts and lift the cutting of the rock to the ground surface
as drilling proceeds.
3. A string of hollow drill rods, which transmit torque from the rig and
flush the fluid from the flush pump to the bottom of the hole
4. And a drilling tool for example core barrel which grinds away the rock
and in addition may be designed to take a sample.

Fig 3.2 wire line rotary core drilling

Wire line drilling is a technique which has been used widely for deep drilling
for many years, principally because it reduces the trip time (i.e. time
required to extract the core tube from the bottom of the hole, empty the core
and replace the core tube). This technique has proved to be very effective in
coring of the relatively difficult deposits such as over consolidated clays,
chalks and interlayer sands, gravel, limestone and clays.

In conventional drilling the outer barrel is connected to a smaller diameter

strings of rods, which in turn is passed through the chuck of drilling rig. Each
time the core barrel is withdrawn, the entire string of rods must be
withdrawn and dissembled, after the core is recovered the whole rod must be
reassembled, trip time increases linearly with the depth. In unstable ground
outer casing must also be used.
Wire line drilling does not use any outer casing, but instead uses an outer
barrel which extends at full diameter to ground level. The inner barrel is
lowered through the full length of the outer barrel on a wire line. When it
reaches the bottom of the hole it latches inside the outer barrel in the correct
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

vertical position. The outer barrel s turned by the rig, as flush is pumped
down it. The latching mechanism holds the inner barrel down but does not fix
it so that it must rotate with the outer barrel. When the outer and inner
barrels have been drilled for the length of the run, the wire line is winched
upwards. The inner barrel and the core are hoisted to ground surface, where
the core is extracted band a new length of outer barrel is added to the string.

Standard Penetration Test (SPT):

SPTs are conducted as per Indian Standard (IS 2131-1981). In SPT test a slit
spoon sampler is driven at the bottom of the borehole. The penetration
resistance in terms of blow of 300mm penetration of the split soon sampler is
measured as N value. The blows are imparted by a standard weight of
63.5kg falling through a height of 750mm. The resistance of first 150mm is
ignored since those blows are considered as seating blows due to loosening
of the strata. The resistance of next 300mm of penetration value N, if the
sampler is driven less than 450mm, then the penetration resistance is given
for at least 300mm of penetration. If the penetration depth is less than
300mm and the blow count is more than 100 then N value is considered as
refusal and actual penetration is recorded with the blows given.
SPTs have been conducted in the drill holes along the alignment of T-74R.
Though empirical in nature, its a practicable method of determine safe
bearing capacity of the soil.
Drilling through hard strata/rock:
The hard stratum is confirmed either by refusal from SPT test or due to
resistance during drilling operation. Once the hard stratum is net with it,
further drilling is carried by NX core drilling with TC/Diamond bits using
double core barrel. Triple tube core was used whenever core recovery is
considerably reduced. The work is done as per IS: 6935-1973. Each run of
the core drilling is properly recorded. The cores are carefully transferred to
the core boxes and preserved. The core recovery percentage is recorded and
also the core pieces transferred to the
Core box are numbered and properly labeled. Rock Quality Designation is
also recorded. Some of the core samples are sent to the laboratories for
conducting tests.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Rock Core Recovery {C.R %= (cumulative length of cores/Length of run) x

100} and Rock Quality Designation (RQD), RQD= (total length of core pieces
of>10cm and above in length/length of run) x 100.

"RQD = (Sumof10)/Itot * 100%"

Where (Sumof10) = Sum of length of core sticks longer than 10 cm
Itot = Total length of core run

3.3 Regional Geology

The Katra-Quazigund railway line passes through geology from rocks of
Siwalik and Murree group of foreland to pre-tertiary rocks of lesser
Himalayas. These rocks are traversed by number of thrusts and faults which
are still considered to be an active. Due to this tectonic activity the rocks
along the proposed alignment are highly jointed, fractured and folded. The
trend of the rock is NW-SE having dip toward NE direction. Murree thrust
marks the tectonic contact between tertiary and pre-tertiary rocks. Its
considered to be an autochthonous folded belt of tightly compressed,
recumbent anticline. It lies between the Muree group of foreland and the
SalkhalaMetasediments of the Kashmir nape. Its outer boundary is marked
by Murree thrust, which has brought rock of this par autochthonous belt over
the Murree group. The northern boundary is marked by Panjal thrust, which
has brought the entire Himalayan Phenorozois succession of Kashmir over
the lesser Himalayan belt.

The rocks of par autochthonous belt are tectonically overlaid by Salkhala

group of rocks along PirPanjal thrust. The Salkhala group consists of thick
sequence of schistone quartzite, phyllite and schist intruded by Granodiorite,
gabbro, pegmatite and basic rocks along Panjal thrust. These are
unconformably overlain by Ramsu formation comprising of highly
compressed sequence of phyllite, carbonaceous slates, quartzite and
limestone which are overlaid by rocks of Machal formation comprising
phyllite, quartzite, slate, agglomerate tuff and limestone. Machal formation is
unconformably overlaid by limestone, marl quartzite, slate lithology of
Syringotheris limestone formation. These are overlaid by fenestella shale,
agglomerate slate and Panjal volcanic formation exposed in the Banihal
tunnel. Towards north of Banihal tunnel,
23

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

The folded Triassic limestone along with minor Jurassic shale beds are exposed in
the section uptoQuazigund. Quaternary sediments represented by karewas
formation are exposed beyond Quazigund toward north upto Srinagar in Kashmir.

Table 3.1: Stratigraphic sequence

(Based on GSI special publication 26, 1998)
Formation
Quaternary
Sediments
Karewas

Lithography
Soil, clay, sand, pebbles etc.

Age
-------------

Clay, silt, sand

Pliocene and
Pleistocene

Siwalik

Sandstone, clay, stone, siltstone

and conglomerate

Miocene and
Pleistocene

----------

Main boundary fault

-----------------

Murree

Sandstone, clay, stone, siltstone

------------Vihi
Zewan
Panjal volcanic
Agglomerate slate

Murree thrust
Limestone and shale
Limestone, slate and flagstone
Basic lava flow

Miocene to Oligocene
--------------Triassic to Jurassic
Miocene to Oligocene
Permian

Slate with pyroclastics

Upper carbonaceous

Fenestella shale

Quartzite, slate, basic silt, shale

Middle carbonaceous

Syringotheris
Limestone
Machal

Silicified limestone, limestone

phyllite, slate, agglomerate tuff
and limestone

Lower carbonaceous
CambroSilurian
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Ramsu

Ramban

Phyllite, carbonaceous,
phyllite/slate, quartzite and
limestone
Phyllite, slate, quartzite, gypsum

Carbo-silurian

Proterozoic

-----------------------------------------------Panjal
Thrust--------------------------------------------------------Salkhala

Slate, phyllite, carbonaceous

phyllite, quartezite, marble with
gypsum bands

Proterozoic

3.4 Geology along the Tunnel Alignment:

Ramsu formation comprising phyllite, carbonaceous phyllite/slates, quartzite

and limestone are exposed along major part of the tunnel alignment having
faulted contact with the overlying Machal formation consisting of phyllite,
slate, quartzite, agglomerate tuff and limestone towards T-74P2. Towards
south of the alignment rocks belonging to Sarkanthgranitite comprising
granite, Granodiorite and dumgali formation comprising quartzite, and
phyllite are exposed. Towards further north of T-74P2 syringotheris Limestone
represented by limestone, marl quartzite, slate lithology is exposed. The
rocks are highly fragile, thinly foliated and fractured.

Identification of ground types and allocation to the alignment:

General ground types of characteristics for the corresponding geological formation
are deduced from geological investigation.
Table 3.2: General geological information along alignment
Formation

Lithological unit

Abstract

Trikuta

Dolomite, dolomitic limestone

Generally brittle rock,

medium to highly
fractured
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Reasi thrust

Fault zones

Several hundred meter

thick brittle fault zones

Dolomite

Completely fractured

Quartzite
Intermediate layers of shale
Fault zones

Small width, brittle fault

zones

Geomorphology and Ground Condition:

The area around the proposed tunnel alignment forms rugged topography having
high hills and deep valleys formed by drainage system mainly controlled by EW
flowing Mohmangat Nala and NS flowing Bichlari Nala ad their tributaries. The area
was studied on the basis of Google earth and limited traverse studies and prepared
a map.

SEISMIC ZONATION MAP OF THE INDIA:

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Local geology of the tunnel:

Major part of the tunnel alignment is occupied but Ramsu formation
comprising phyllite, carbonaceous slate, quartzite and limestone from
125.300km to 133.000km and from 133.00km to 133.900km (T-74P2),
Machal formation comprising phyllite, slate, and agglomerate tuff and
limestone are exposed. The rocks are highly fragile, thinly foliated and
27

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

fractured in nature. Weathering grade of the rock is between W/I to W/IV. The
tunnel alignment area is covered by hill wash and debris material. The area
all along the alignment is slide prone. The general trend of rock mass varies
from N700W-S700E to N300W-S300E with dip 400 to 700 north easterly. Wide
variation in dip and strike indicates that the rock have undergone intense
deformation due to folding and faulting. Generalized geological map of the
area has been prepared (after AMBERG) and using borehole data with limited
traverse studies.

Fault:
The proposed tunnel may intercept faulted contact between Ramsu
formation and Machal formation around chainage 132.650km at tunnel
formation level. Heavy ingress of water together with the abnormal over
break is expected in this section.

Fold:
The anticline fold is suspected roughly along the Mohmangat Nala. This is
indicated by variabledip of rocks along both the banks of Nala, however this
fold is located from the tunnel alignment.
3.5 Subsurface Exploration by Drill Holes:
BH-01: Drilled at chainage of 125.790km reveks 69m thick overburden. From
0.00m to 20m, over burden consists of hill slope debris material consisting of
highly weathered fragments/rock cutting of quartz, phyllite intermixed with
greyish brown silt clay matrix and from 20m to 69m overburden consists of
light greyish to whitish color rock fragments of phyllite with iron oxide
leaching and wash material. The overburden appears to be an old slide zone.
From 69m-124m depth the bedrock consist of fine grained, light grey to grey
colored, highly fractured phyllite with 600 to 650 foilation. Quartz veins and
limonitic staining is seen at places. From depth 124m-145m depth, phyllite
and quartzite are recorded. Phyllite is light grey to grey in color, the rock is
highly fractured from 145m-227m, greyish to dark greyish in color, inclined
jointed, highly fractured and foliated quartzite phyllite is recorded. Light grey
to grey colored,

fine grained, moderately weathered and fractured phyllite is noticed from

227m-263m, again from 263m-269m depth, dark grey,fine to medium
grained, moderately weathered and strong quartzite phyllite has been
28

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

encountered .From 269m-280m , grey to dark grey,fine grained, foliated,

highly fractured and weathered , weak phyllite with quartz vein along
foliation plain is see. From 280m-315m, grey to dark grey colored,
quartzitephyllite with quartz veins has been recovered. Core recovery varies
from nil to 100% RQD is nil to 67%.
Overall quality of the tunnel media is poor. At formation level,RL 1564.097m
highly fractured and foliated quartzite phyllite is present. Average RQD at the
formation is 18%.
BH-2: drilled at chainage 128.382km revealed overburden consisting of
weathered fragments of quartz and phyllite in clay silty matrix upto 18.50
depth. The overburden material indicates presence of slide zone or debris
flow material. From 18.5 to 53.00, bedrock consists of grey colored, fine
grained, weathered and weak phyllite with iron oxide leaching is
rerecorded .From 53.00 to 176.00m, light grey to grey colouredphyllite at
places, quartzitic/schistose in nature, inclined foliation, highly fractured with
45% to 60% foliation and quartz vein is recorded. From 282.50 to 318.50 m
light grey coloured thinly foliated, weak phyllite, highly fractured is
recovered. From 318.50 to 335.00m, black coloured fine grained, thinly
foliate and pyritiferousphyllite showing appearances of graphite at places is
recorded. From 335.00m to 350.00m, dark grey to black colored, fine to
medium grained, fractured carbonaceous phyllite/phyllite with joints 60
degree to 80 degree is noticed and from 350m to 383m complete water loss,
no core recovery or wash material is recovered. From 383.00m to
402.00m,lightly grey, fine to medium graine,slightly weathered and
fractured, pyritiferousphyllite with slate/phyllite, quartz veins along foliation
planes is noticed and from 402.00m to 415.00m black, fine to medium
grained, moderately weather, carbonaceous phyllite with black color wash
sample from 402.00404.00, 405.00-406.00m and from 408.00m to
415.00m. Core recovery is nil to 92% and RQD varies from nil to 57%. The
overall quality of the rock mass is poor.
BH-3
Drilled at chainage128.759km, the borehole has recovered overburden from
0-21m depth consisted of fragments of slate and phyllite in dark brownish
coloredsilty/clay matrix. Overburden material indicates old slide zone. From
21-50m depth bed consists of light to darkgreycolored, fractured
agglomerate slate/phyllite. From 50-62 m depth borehole has encountered
greyish white colored, fine grained, highly fractured and moderately strong
phyllite. Weathering grade varies from W1 to W2.SPT test conducted at 1.50
to 1.55m recorded refusal to penetration. Core recovery varies from 14 to
23% and RQD is nil. The bore hole has not touched the formation level.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Geotechnical laboratory tests:

Geotechnical tests of large size intact core samples have been conducted by
geotechnical laboratory IIT Bombay. The tests conducted are tensile strength
test , point load test ,uniaxial compressive strength test, modulus of
elasticity , poison ratio, dry density and other tests such as specific gravity,
water content etc.
Tensile strength ranges from 10.15 kg/cm2 to 118.11 kg/cm2 point load (KN)
from 2.80 to 20.25,UCS from 60.80 kg/cm 2 to 3712 kg/cm2 , modulus of
elasticity from 0.2331 to 1.587 kg/cm 2, poison ratio from 0.0765 to 1.0701 ,
dry density from 2.164 to 2.966 gm/cc and permeability conducted on soil
and rock sample yielded legion values between 0.00 to 44.81.

3.6 Engineering classification of rock mass:

During the preliminary stage, the use of rock mass classification is of
considerable importance in the absence of detailed information about the
orientation of the discontinuities,filling, spacing and continuity etc. at the
formation grade. The main aim and objective of the rock mass classification
is to provide an overall idea about the rock mass quality likely to meet with
at the formation grade, for engineering design and to prepare for remedial
measures, in advance. In this respect two different rock mass classifications
have been used. These are Q and RMR rating system which are based on
the surface geological studies and data obtained from the drill holes. Based
on the Q and ESR value, recommended maximum unsupported excavation
span and estimated tunnel support system has been suggested besides
average standup time of the rock mass has also been determined on the
basis of RMR class no.

ROCK MASS CLASSIFICATION:

Terzaghis rock mass classification
The earliest reference to the use of rock mass classification for the design of
tunnel support is in a paper by Terzaghi in which the rock loads, carried by
steel sets, are estimated on the basis of a descriptive classification. While no
useful purpose would be served by including details of Terzaghis
classification .While no useful purpose would be served by including details
of Terzaghis classification in the discussion on the design of support, it is
interesting to examine the rock mass descriptions included in his original
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

paper because he draws attention to those characteristics that dominate

rock mass behavior, particularly in situations where gravity

31

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Constitutes the dominant driving force.

The clear and concise definitions and the practical comments included in
these descriptions are good examples of the type of engineering geology
information, which is most useful for engineering design.

Terzaghis descriptions (quoted directly from his paper) are:

1. Intact rock contains neither joints nor hair cracks. Hence, if it breaks, it
breaks across sound rock. On account of the injury to the rock due to
blasting, spalls may drop off the roof several hours or days after
blasting. This is known as a spalling condition. Hard, intact rock may
also be encountered in the popping condition involving the
spontaneous and violent detachment of rack slabs from the sides of
roof.
2. Stratified rock consists of individual strata with little or no resistance
against separation along the boundaries between the strata. The strata
may or may not be weakened by transverse joints. In such rock the
spalling condition is quite common.
3. Moderately jointed rock contains joints and hair cracks, but the blocks
between joints are locally grown together or so intimately interlocked
that vertical walls do not require lateral support. In rocks of this type,
both spalling and popping conditions may be encountered.
4. Blocky and seamy rock consists of chemically intact rock fragments
which are entirely separated from each other and imperfectly
interlocked. In such rock, vertical walls may require lateral support.
5. Crushed but chemically intact rock has the character of crusher run. If
most or all of the fragments are as small as fine sand grains and no re
cementation has taken place, crushed rock below the water table
exhibits the properties of a water bearing sand.

Rock quality designation index (RQD)

The rock quality designation index (RQD) was developed byDeere (Deere at
al 1967) to provide a quantitative estimate of rock mass quality from drill
core logs.RQD is defined as the percentage of intact core pieces longer than
100mm in the total length of core. The core should be at least NW size and
should be drilled with a double tube core barrel. The correct procedures for
measurement of the length of core pieces and the calculation of RQD are
summarized below in fig.3.4.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Palmstrom (1982) suggested that when no core is available but discontinuity

traces are visible in surface exposures or exploration results, the RQD may
be estimated from the number of discontinuities per unit volume. The
suggested relationship between clay-free rock masses is:
RQD = 115- Jv
Where Jv is sum of number of joints per unit length for all joints
(discontinuity) sets known as the volumetric joint count.
RQD is the directionally dependent parameter and its value may change
depending upon the borehole orientation. The use of volumetric joint count
can be useful reducing this directional dependence.
RQD is intended to present the rock mass quality in situ. When using
diamond drill core, care must be taken to ensure that fractures, which have
been caused by the handing other drilling processes are identified and
ignored while determining he value of RQD.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Here blast induced fractures are not included in the estimation of the Jv

Q System:
Large part of the tunnel alignment constitutes entirely Ramsu formation
comprising phyllite, quartzite phyllite, with subordinate carbonaceous
phyllite, quartzite and limestone bands and Machal formation constituting
entirely by phyllite and slates with rare limestone and agglomerate
interbands. Therefore, Q value and RMR classification has been calculated
in respect of phyllite, quartzite phyllite and slate which are crossing major
part of the tunnel alignment.
On the basis of an evaluation of a large number of case histories of
underground excavations, Barton et al (1974) of the Norwegian Geotechnical
Institute proposed a tunneling Quality Index (Q) for the determination of rock
mass characteristics and tunnel support requirements. The numerical value
of the index Q varies on a logarithmic scale from 0.001 to a maximum of
1,000 and is defined by:
Q= (RQD/Jn) x (Jr/Ja) x (Jw/SRF)
Where RQD is the rock Quality Designation
Jn is the joint set number
Jr is the joint roughness number
Ja is the joint alteration number
Jw is the joint water reduction factor
SRF is the stress reduction factor

In explaining the meaning of the parameters used to determine the value of

Q, Barton et al (1974) offer the following comments:
The first quotient (RQD/Jn), representing the structure of the rock mass, is a
crude measure of the block or particle size, with the two extreme values
(100/0.5 and 10/20) differing by a factor of 400. If the quotient is interpreted
in units of centimeters, the extreme particle sizes of 200 to 0.5cm are seem
to be crude but fairly realistic approximations. Probably the largest blocks
34

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

should be several times this size and the smallest fragments less than half
the size.

The second quotient (Jr/Ja) represents the roughness and frictional

characteristics of the jointwalls or filling materials. This quotient is weighted
in favor of rough, unaltered joints in direct contact. It is to be expected that
such surfaces will be close to peak strength, that they will dilate

Strongly when sheared, and they will therefore be especially favorable to

tunnel stability.
When rock joints have thin clay mineral coatings and fillings, the strength is
reduced significantly. Nevertheless,rock wall contact after small shear
displacements have occurred may be a very important factor for preserving
the excavation from ultimate failure.
Where no rock wall contact exists, the conditions are extremely unfavorable
to tunnel stability. The friction angles are a little below the residual strength
values for most clays, and are possibly downgraded by the fact that this clay
bands or fillings may tend to consolidate during shear, atleast if normal
consolidation or if softening and swelling has occurred. The swelling pressure
ofmontmorillonite may also be a factor here.
The third quotient (Jw/SRF) consist of two stress parameters. SRF is a
measure of: 1) loosening load in the case of excavation through shear zones
and clay bearing rock, 2) rock stress in component rock, and 3) squeezing
loads in plastic in competent rock. It can be regarded as the total stress
parameter.
The parameter Jw is a measure of water pressure, which has an adverse
effect on the shear strength of joints due to a reduction in effective normal
stress. Watermay, inaddition, because softening and possible outwash in the
case of clay-filled joints.it has proved impossible to combine these two
parameters in terms of inter-block effective stress, because paradoxically a
high value of effective normal stress may sometimes signify less stable
conditions then a low value, despite the higher shear strength. Thequotient
(Jw/SRF) is a complicated empirical factor describing the active stress.
It appears that the rock tunneling quality Q can now be considered to be a
function of only three parameters which are crude measures of:
1. Blocksize (RQD/Jn)
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

2. Inter-block shear strength (Jr/Ja)

3. Activestress (Jw/SRF)

Geo-mechanics
classification

Classification/RMR

Bieniawski(1972) published the details of a rock mass classification called

the Geo-mechanics classification or the rock mass rating (RMR) System. Over
the years, this system has been successively refined as more case records
have been examined and the reader should be aware that bieniawski has
made significant changed in the ratings assigned to different parameters.
The discussion which flows is based up on the 1989 version of the
classification (Bieniawski, 1989). Both the version and the 1976 version deal
with estimating the strength of rock masses.
The main aim of this classification is to provide guideline for tunnel support
to ensure the stability of various classes of rock mass. The advantage of this
classification is that it considers the various parameters likely to influence
the engineering behavior of rock. Also the rating of these parameters is easy
to determine at the site itself. Following six parameters which have been
included are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of intact rock

RQD
Spacing of discontinuities
Condition of discontinuities
Ground water condition
Orientation of discontinuities

ROCK MASS RATING VALUE (RMR):

Based on this the rock mass classification as per RMR is as shown in table
3.5 and corresponding support system is given in table 3.6.
In applying this classification system, the rock mass is divided into a number
of structural regions and each region is classified separately. The boundaries
of the structural regions usually coincide with a major structural feature such
as fault or with a change in rock type. In some cases, significant changes in
discontinuity spacing or characteristics, within the same rock type, may
necessitate the division of the rock mass into a number of small structural
regions.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

The first five of these parameters are grouped into five ranges of values
which are assigned specific rating to reflect their influence on total rock mass
quality. The rating of sixth parameter is considered depending on orientation
of tunnel with respect to the strike and dip of the formation to arrive at the
final rock mass classification. By adding the relevant rating of the above
parameters , RMR has been calculated for the dominant type of rock mass
crossing the tunnel alignment.

37

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

38

Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Table 3.6: Support system corresponding to rock quality given in RMR system

Rock mass
class

Exacavation

Rock bolts (20mm

dia., fully
grouted)

shotcrete

Steel sets

I-Verygood
rock

Full face, 3m advance

Generally no support required except spot

bolting

Full face, 1-1.5m

advance. Complete
support 20m from face.

Locally, bolts in
crown 3m long
spaced 1.5-2m
with occasional
wire mesh.

50mm in
crown where
required.

None

Top heading and bench

1.5-3m advance in top
heading.

Systematic bolts
4m long, spaced
1.5-2m in crown
and walls with
wire mesh in
crown.

50-100mm in
crown and
30mm in
sides.

None

Systematic bolts
4-5m long,
spaced 1-1.5m in
crown and walls
with wire mesh.

100-150mm
in crown and
100mm in
sides.

Light to
medium
ribs spaced
1.5m where
required.

RMR: 81-100
II- Good rock
RMR: 61-80

III- Fair rock

RMR: 41-60

Commence support after

each blast.
Complete support 10m
from face.
IV- Poor rock

Top heading and bench

RMR: 21-40

1-1.5m advance in top

heading.
Install support
concurrently with
excavation, 10m from
face

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

V- Very poor
rock

Multiple drifts 0.5-1.5 m

advance in top heading.

RMR: <20

Install support
concurrently with
excavation. Shotcrete as
soon as possible after
blasting

Systematic bolts
5-6m long,
spaced 1-1.5m in
crown and walls
with wire mesh.
Bolt invert

150-200mm
in crown,
150mm in
sides and
50mm on
face.

Medium to
heavy ribs
spaced
0.75m with
steel
lagging and
forepoling if
required.
Close
invert.

RMR rating in respect of phyllite, quartzite phyllite of Ramsu formation and

phyllite/slate of Machal formation is givenin the table 3.7, 3.8 & 3.9 below:
Table 3.7: Location: KHARI area, Phyllite (Ramsu formation)
S.No
.

Parameters

Value

Rating

Strength of intact rock(UCS)

50-100mpa

Spacing of discontinuities

>60mm

RQD

<25%

Condition of discontinuities
Persistence

1-3mm

Aperture

1-5mm

Roughness

Smooth

Filling

Soft

weathering

Moderately

Damp
5

Ground water condition

10

Dip and strife of main discontinuity

-2

Total rating

34

Rock mass rating

Poor

Rock class

IV
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Table 3.8: Location: KHARI area, Quartziticphyllite (Ramsu formation)

S.No.

Parameters

Value

Rating

Strength of intact rock(UCS)

100-250mpa

12

Spacing of discontinuities

>60mm

RQD

<25%

Condition of discontinuities
Persistence

1-3mm

Aperture

>5mm

Roughness

Smooth

Filling

Soft

weathering

Slightly
weathered

Ground water condition

Wet

Dip and strife of main discontinuity

Favorable

-2

Total rating

37

Rock mass rating

Poor

Rock class

IV

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Table 3.9: Location: Banihal area, Phyllite/slate Machal formation

S.No.

Parameters

Value

Rating

Strength of intact rock(UCS)

100-250mpa

12

Spacing of discontinuities

>60mm

RQD

<25%

Condition of discontinuities
Persistence

1-3mm

Aperture

>5mm

Roughness

Smooth

Filling

Soft

weathering

Highly
weathered

Ground water condition

Wet

Dip and strife of main

discontinuity

Favorable

-2

Total rating

33

Rock mass rating

Poor

Rock class

IV

Safe Bearing Pressure: Safe Bearing Pressure (SBP) of the rock mass has
been calculated by using RMR system. SBP has been calculated for phyllite
and quartziticphyllite of Ramsu formation and phylliye/slate of Machal
formation. All the above rock types fall in poor category with total rating of
34, 37 and 33, respectively. It is recommended that during construction. The
net SBP calculated on the basis of RMR system is given in table 3.10 below:
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Table 3.10: Net SBP
Classification No.

II

III

IV

Description of
rock

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

Very good

RMR

100-81

80-61

60-41

40-21

20-0

Qs (MP)

6.0-4.5

4.5-2.9

2.9-1.5

1.5-0.6

0.6-0.4

Stand up time based on RMR classification has been calculated for both the
rock formation. The standup time for tunnel excavation may be taken as 10
hours for 2.5 span.

Standard Penetration test:

Standard Penetration test (SPT) have been calculated in the drill holes along
T-74R alignment. Though empirical in nature, it is a practicable method to
determine safe bearing capacity of soil.
The soil recovered in the bore holes is generally hard, fine to medium
grained silt/clay matrix with rock fragment. From 1.5m-2.1m, 3.00-m-3.60m
and from 4.50m-4.55m depth in BH-1, N values recorded are 34, 47 and
refusal to penetration, respectively. In BH-2 from 1.50m-1.70m, refusal to
penetration is recorded, BH-3 has recorded refusal to penetration from
1.50m-1.55m depth. In BH-4, SPT conducted from 6.00m-6.05m, 13.50m13.53m, 34.50m-34.55m.
Safe bearing capacity as IS 1904-1961for moist clay mixture that can be
identified with strong thumb pressure -15T/m 2 for soft shale, hard rock stiff
clay in deep bed ,dry, subject too certain ground condition. Therefore, safe
bearing capacity of soil ranging between 15T/m 2 and 45T/m2maybe
considered.
Through the above value of empirical in nature but it gives an overall nature
and strength of the soil material in respect of slope stability ,foundation
portal location ,filling material etc. however, it is suggested to conduct in-situ
load bearing tests before placing foundation, slope stability measure, etc. to
have exact characteristics of the soil material.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Permeability Tests:
Double packers tests have been conducted in the northern end of the tunnel
alignment towards Banihal, in BH-5A, BH-5B, BH-7.the tests have been
carried out to determine permeability of the rock mass at different depths, as
per IS-5529 specification .the formation grade lies between 40m to74m
below ground surface in this section.

S.N
O.

Borehole
No.

Depth

Core
No.

Rock Type

Remark

01

5A

29.8031.00

109

Fresh
slatyphyllite

Fine grained
schistose texture

02

5A

35.0035.70

123

Fresh
slatyphyllite

Fine grained
schistose texture

03

5A

46.0047.00

169

Fresh
slatyphyllite

Fine grained
schistose texture

04

5A

49.0050.00

185

Fresh
slatyphyllite

Fine grained
schistose texture

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

3.7 Geotechnical discussion:

The tunnel alignment run through highly fragile rock mass. The bulk
composition of the Ramsu formation and Mechal formation is phyllite with
minor quartzite, quartzitic bands in Ramsu formation and agglomerate slate,
tuff limestone in Mechal formation. The phyllite are highly fracture and
fragile due to intense folding and faulting.
In general the core recovery is moderately good but the RQD is poor,
indicating that the rock mass is highly fractured and jointed deeptunneling
(>200m) through such rock mass is difficult task in HIMALAYAS where in-situ
stress are high. Some of the tunneling problems which are likely to meet with
and remedial measures are discussed.

Rock Bursting/Squeezing:
In Himalayas the phenomena occurs in deep tunneling in the areas of active
in-situ stresses. As per calculation based on thickness of rock mass over the
tunnel and Q value, the alignment lies in the safer zone. However this
phenomenon can also occur at shallow depths where the rock are highly
fragile and fractured andfolded. Suitable remedial measures may be kept in
readiness for such situation.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Over-break:
Considering the poor quality of the rock, excessive over break/chimney
formations are likely to occur. Remedial measures are grouting and heavy
support may be kept in readiness.

CHAPTER 04
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TUNNEL
MONITORING

4.1 Introduction
Monitoring section consists of 3D monitoring ponits (DMP), Strain meters,
Pressure cells and Multipoint (3 Point and 2 Point) extensometers. In tunnel
monitoring these instruments are installed at proper sections after primary
Shotcreting to measure the deformation, squeezing and lateral and
longitudinal shifting of tunnel till the tunnel gets stabilized. The read out unit
gives readings of pressure cells, Strain meters and MPBXs directly in
engineering units and final linning is given to the tunnel section. The details
of the instrument are given below.

STRAIN METERS
Strain has no units and we calculate it in micro strains (s)
Readings in s= [(F.R in digits I.R in digits) x G.F]
digit/mm

where G.F is in

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

LR initial reading is taken after the installation of the strain meter on the wire
mesh/lattice girder (before Shotcreting). This is also called the zero reading.
This reading is subtracted from the subsequent reading which is taken after
shotcreting.
F.R is final reading taken after shotcreting.
G.F gauge factor is provided with every instrument by the manufacturer. It is
different for each instrument.
Range of strain meter is 1500 micro strain. ve sign indicates compressive
strain and +ve sign indicates tensile strain.
Five- three pairs of strain meters have been installed. One pair on crown, 2 nd
on left and 3rd on the right hand side. For crown the strain meters are names
as SS1I and SSM 1O where 1 indicates crown position and I and O for the
outer strain meters, similarly SSM 2I for the left side and SSM 3I-3O for the
right side.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

1. PRESSURE CELLS
Pressure cells are fixed on the lattice girders. These measures the pressure of
rock mass coming on the lattice girder and pressure is indicated on the
portable Readout unit in MPa.

Reading in MPa = (F.R I.R) x G.F where G>F is in digit/MPa

For pressure cell RPC-1 for crown (Radial pressure cell), RPC-2 for the left
side and RPC-3 for the right side.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

2. M.P EXTENSOMETER
In tunnel T-74R, 2-3 point extensometers are being installed. The sensors are
attached to the connecting fiber glass rods at the mouth of MPBX housing.
The convergence/divergence of surrounding rock is measured on the
portable Readout unit in mm.

Reading in mm = (F.R I.R) x G.F where G.F is in digits/mm

+ve sign indicates rod of extensometer coming out of boreholes showing
divergence in the tunnel.
-ve sign indicates rod of extensometer going inside the borehole showing
convergence in the tunnel.
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

For extensometer we use MRE-1, MRE-2, and MRE-3

MRE 1-9
anchor

crown position 9m deep

MRE 1-6

crown position 6m deep

MRE 1-3

crown position 3m deep

MRE 2-9

left position 9m anchor

MRE 2-6

left position 6m deep

MRE 2-3

left position 3m deep

MRE 3-9

right position 9m deep anchor

MRE 3-6

right position 6m deep

MRE 3-3

right position 3m deep

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Monitoring cross Sections (3D Monitoring Instrumentation)

At the start in the already excavated tunnel three DMPs have been installed
at every 50m interval. Further as excavation of tunnel progressed, three
DMPs are installed in heading and two in the benching
Method of ERT 10B_BiReflex Target
General description
Model Ert-10 bi reflex target consists of a reflector mounted on robust frame.
The target has reflector on both sides and is mounted on a universal joint
such that it can be oriented in any direction as required. The target had a
small center hole to allow precise targeting.

It is made up of high performance material and precise manufacturing

processes. The target is thus interchangeable. The target is high measuring
accuracy so as to achieve the specified measuring accuracy of 1mm. it is
used along with the convergence bolt and break off point. For the installation
exact position is located and a hole of 25mm diameter and depth of 220mm
is drilled in which the convergence bolt is grouted. The break off point is
mounted on the convergence bolt and bi-reflex target is fixed on it. To find
out actual convergence/settlement the coordinates recorded earlier are
subtracted from subsequent readings with the help of TS.

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

SM-3

Tunnel: T-74R North Portal Escape

Section
Type:

S2

Location

Chainage:7247.25
Position : 19:30Hrs

Read out
Unit

Model EDI 51V

Instrument Name: Strain Meter, Range: 1500 strain

Observation
S.No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11

Date

18-032013
19-032013
20-032013
23-032013
26-032013
01-042013
03-042013
17-042013
22-042013
29-042013
02-052013

SM2-I

SM2-O

Time

Remarks

Ch. No.
273(e)
0.00

Ch. No.
274(e)
0.00

6.20

-35

13.00

-34

-104

13.21

Reading before
shotcrete
Reading before
shotcrete
Excavation in progress

-50

-120

9:21

Excavation in progress

-90

-134

12.12

-123

-145

10.30

-135

-150

11.40

-140

-160

12.34

-136

-172

12.21

-180

-223

12.10

-176

-226

11.44
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35

04-052013

-168

12-06-2013
14-06-171
2013
19-06-165
2013
21-06-163
2013
24-06-161
2013
10-06-159
2013
28-10-257
2013
29-10-257
2013
29-10-256
2013
26-11-256
2013
29-11-255
2013
04-11-214
2013
13-11-172
2013
04-12-178
2013
13-12-212
2013
16-12-214
2013
27-12-258
2013
11-01-259
2014
18-01-258
2014
25-01-260
2014
01-02-258
2014
10-02-261
2014
13-02-278

-334

11.22

-168
-347

-352
10:32

-320

11:26

-340

11:09

-342

11:15

-339

11:35

-335

11:41

-328

11:50

-438

12:00

-451

12:30

-441

12:24

-442

11:00

-440

11:16

-406

11:20

-392

11:34

-392

11:30

-444

11:11

-452

11:40

-454

12:14

-458

12:20

-454

12:44

-456

13:28

-459

12:44

11:34

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

2014

4.4 DEFORMATION MONITORING POINT DATA FOR NORTH PORTAL

MAIN TUNNEL
Horiz Settl
ontal emen
Displ
t
acem
ent

DATE

DATA ANALYSIS SHEET

Vertical displacement

Change in
Easting from
initial(x)(mm)

Change in easting
from initial
elevation(z)

Change in
northing from
initial (y)

14-06-2013

0.0
0

0.00

0.00 0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

15-06-2013

4.0
0

6.00

5.00 -2.00

-1.00

-1.00

2.00

-1.00 3.00

17-06-2013

6.0
0

7.00

4.00 -3.00

-2.00

-2.00

3.00

-2.00 3.00

19-06-2013

7.0
0

8.00

4.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-3.00 4.00

21-06-2013

6.0

7.00

4.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

0.00

-2.00 3.00
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

0
24-06-2013

6.0
0

7.00

4.00 -5.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-1.00 3.00

25-06-2013

7.0
0

7.00

3.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

0.00

-2.00 3.00

27-06-2013

8.0
0

8.00

3.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-3.00 4.00

28-06-2013

7.0
0

7.00

4.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-1.00 4.00

29-06-2013

6.0
0

7.00

4.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-2.00 3.00

01-07-2013

7.0
0

8.00

3.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

0.00

-2.00 4.00

01-07-2013

6.0
0

8.00

4.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

0.00

-3.00 4.00

01-07-2013

7.0
0

8.00

3.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-2.00 3.00

01-07-2013

600

7.00

3.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

1.00

-2.00 4.00

01-07-2013

7.0
0

8.00

4.00 -4.00

-3.00

-3.00

0.00

-2.00 3.00

4.5 MULTI POINT EXTENSOMETER DATA FOR MAIN TUNNEL NORTH

PORTAL

Section

S3

Location

Tunnel: T-74R North Portal Main

Tunnel
Chainage: 132738
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Type:

Position : 12:00 Hrs

Read out
Unit

Model EDI 51V

Instrument Name: Multipoint rod Extensometer (MRE), Range: 50mm

Observation
S.No.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Date

02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013
02-032013

Time

Remarks

Base reading after

grouting

MRE 19
Ch.
260(m
m)
0.00

MRE 16
Ch.
261(m
m)
0.00

MRE
1-3
Ch.
262(m
m)
0.00

12.00

0.02

0.01

0.02

10.23

0.03

0.02

0.02

11.00

0.01

0.01

0.01

11.34

0.01

-0.02

0.00

11.40

0.00

0.00

0.00

11.50

0.00

0.00

0.01

12.12

0.00

0.00

0.00

12.23

0.00

0.00

0.00

13.12

-1.00

-1.00

-1.00

13.10

-1.00

0.00

0.00

11.56

-1.00

-1.00

-1.00

11.40

-1.00

0.00

-1.00

11.23
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36

04-032013
06-032013
07-032013
09-032013
10-032013
11-032013
12-032013
13-032013
14-032013
15-032013
16-032013
18-032013
21-032013
22-032013
24-032013
28-032013
29-032013
30-032013
03-062013
05-062013
10-082013
13-082013
15-082013

-1.00

-1.00

0.00

11.30

0.00

0.00

0.00

11.55

-1.00

-1.00

-1.00

12.12

-0.02

0.01

-0.02

13.11

-0.01

-0.01

-0.01

13.00

-0.01

-0.02

-0.02

12.18

-0.02

-0.03

-0.03

12.44

-0.01

-0.02

-0.02

11.55

-0.01

-0.01

-0.02

11.44

-0.03

-0.03

-0.04

11.12

-0.08

-0.08

-0.07

10.53

-0.09

-0.09

-0.09

10.40

-0.09

-0.07

-0.09

14.10

-0.09

-0.07

-0.10

10.23

-0.09

-0.10

-0.10

10.40

-0.10

-0.09

-0.10

11.40

-0.10

-0.09

-0.10

12.40

-0.10

-0.09

-0.10

14.21

-0.09

-0.09

-0.10

14.12

-0.09

-0.09

-0.09

11.40

-0.09

-0.09

-0.08

12.45

-0.09

-0.09

-0.10

11.50

-0.09

-0.09

-0.09

10.20
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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

37
38
39

17-012014
19-012014
10-022014

-0.09

-0.09

-0.09

10.50

-0.09

-0.09

-0.10

11.43

-0.09

-0.09

-0.09

10.22

05
CONCLUSION

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Conclusion
a) T-74R consists of main tunnel and and escape tunnel connected to each
other by CPBs.
b) The rock mass in PirPanjal range is highly inhomogeneous hence NATM
was adopted
c) Extensive geological and geotechnical investigation was carried to decide
the design criteria.
d) The overall rack mass is fair, hence light lattice girder and rock bolting
was done.
e) Subsurface exploration by boreholes along T-74R alignment was carried
out to understand quality of rock mass at the formation grade.
f) The bulk composition of rock mass of Ramsu and Machal formation is
commonly
phyllite with minor quartzite, phyllite/slatyphyllite and agglomerate slate.
g) The rocks are thinly foliated, highly fragile and fractured in nature and
intensely deformed due to faulting and folding.
h) Core recovery varies from 0 to 99% and RQD from O to 95%. The Q value
of phyllite, quartziticphyllite of the formation varies between 0.33 to 0.83.
i) Recommended maximum unsupported span of phyllite varies from 1 to 2
m for poor rock class.
j) RMR for phyllite, quartziticphyllite varies from 33 to 37 for poor rock class.
k) On the basis of RMR stand up time may be 10 hrs. For 2.5m span.
m) The soil is inhomogeneous in Present 0356 hence NATM is Preferred over
TBM.
n) The deformation, squeezing and lateral movements of tunnel were
observed and it was found that deformations were within permissible limits
in almost all cases.

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06

PHOTO GALLERY

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

Image 02a taken at the site

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Tunnel Construction in PirPanjal(Himalaya) using NATM, Case Study T-74R

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76