Geotechnical investigation for proposed 2 MW hydropower project on BRB canal at RD 0+000 District Gujranwala (P-0850) (MFN 3049)

Abstract

Pakistan is facing energy shortfall for past few decades. Gujranwala is the industrial hub of Pakistan also facing the diversity effects of energy crisis which let industrial workers riots in recent years. Rapid growth of industries also increases the power demands for establishing industries for bright and well developed Pakistan. Present research work focuses on the geotechnical investigations carried for Tarakai Energy (Pvt) Ltd for their proposed construction of 2-MW hydropower project on BRBD canal near Wazirabad District Gujranwala. The fieldwork for geotechnical investigation started in mid October 2010 and was completed in November 2010. Three bore holes were drilled with rotary drilling technique for foundation studies of proposed powerhouse location. Preparation of drill-logs, performing in-situ standard penetration tests (SPT) at selected depth along with collection of undisturbed and disturb samples for their index and engineering properties determination. The SPT data reveals gradual increase with depth. Grain size analysis reveals presence of gavel 0.4 to 4.6%, sand 38.3 to 95.7% with silt/clay compositely 4.3 to 61.3%. Liquid limit varies from 0 to 36% and Plastic limit varies from 0 to 30%. Based upon direct shear test angle of friction varies from 33.90 to 360 and cohesion varies to 0.05 to 0.14. Bulk density wet varies from 2.01 to 2.05 g/cm3, dry density varies 1.79 to 1.84 and specific gravity varies between 2.48 to 2.62. Water of area is alkaline in nature with ignorable soil sulphate and chloride contents. Based upon field and laboratories analysis, the location is considered suitable for power house location.