Construction of important structures by excavation of open cuts on the face of a hill or at its toe is generally fraught with risks on account of possible rockslides specially when the rocks are highly jointed and are known, to contain weak planes and fault zones. In order to eliminate the risk of rochslides, adequate knowledge regarding the physical and geological characteristics of the rocks and also hydraulic conditions obtaining at site is essential on the basis of which suitable remedial measures to ensure stability of hill slopes should be taken. Besides, the solution of the problem requires considerable judgement on account of many uncertainties involved. The present article outlines the mode of treatment required for the hill slopes in such cases with specific reference to Khodri Power House in the State of Uttar Pradesh, India.
