Initial Investigation Reveals Weak Soil and Water Accumulation as Causes of Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway Failures
NEW DELHI: An assessment by IIT Kharagpur has identified weak and highly plastic soil as a primary cause of premature failures on the Lucknow-Kanpur Expressway. The expert analysis revealed that the soil beneath the expressway is significantly contributing to slippage issues in certain stretches. The report indicated that the highway’s structural layers did not exhibit major deficiencies in thickness.
The assessment highlighted drainage problems, particularly in areas where water accumulates due to unpaved shoulders meant for future expansion. Waterlogging was observed mainly in deeply depressed sections, with water present at the level of the lower concrete layer and in the underlying soil. However, there was no widespread water accumulation in the upper layers of the road. The report noted that a layer of soil between the concrete drainage layer and hard shoulders might be hindering proper drainage.
The expert emphasized that the presence of water alone could not account for the failures observed. The use of highly plastic soil was deemed a significant factor. The report also called for an examination of soil compaction and whether the road’s design assumptions regarding the strength of its base layer were met. Recommendations included rebuilding affected stretches from the ground up, particularly in areas with major depressions and slippage, and conducting a detailed survey to identify weak soil stretches. The panel stressed that prompt identification and remediation of weak soil are essential for preventing further failures and ensuring the expressway’s long-term durability.
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