Impact of the 2010-2011 La Nina Weather Phenomenon on Terrain Stability and Utilization of Long Tunnels for Mitigation Along the Ruta del Sol Project Alignment in Colombia, South America

摘要

The Ruta del Sol Road Project is located in the seismically active Eastern Cordillera of Colombia, South America and includes approximately 3.2 kilometers of tunnels between the towns of Villeta and Guaduas through an area extremely prone to landslides. Between 2010 and 2011, extended periods of rainfall associated with the La Nina weather phenomenon affected the region and extensive slope failures occurred along the Project alignment. Gall Zeidler Consultants analyzed the correlation between La Nina on the geotechnical conditions and the possible need for a redesign of the alignment, for which additional long tunnels may present the most preferable alternative.