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Dr Seyed Mahmoud Fatemi Aghda, Dr Mehdi Talkhablou, Habibolah Heidari,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (English articles 2025)
Abstract

Reliable assessment methods are required for designing initial support for tunnels in complex geological conditions. This study provides a thorough comparison of the Rock Mass Rating (RMR) and Rock Engineering System (RES) frameworks, examining a substantial dataset comprising 38 tunnels situated in various lithological and tectonic zones across Iran. While the RMR framework offers empirical simplicity, the RES framework provides a systems-based approach that quantifies parameter interdependencies. Analysis of field data, including shotcrete thickness and bolt density, revealed that the RES framework captures hydro-mechanical coupling more effectively, particularly in intermediate rock masses. To reconcile discrepancies between the two systems, we explored an integrated statistical formulation combining normalized RMR ratings with RES stability indices. This approach demonstrated a significantly higher correlation with field performance (R² ≈ 0.99) than the individual methods. The results emphasise the importance of integrating empirical and systems-based approaches to improve the reliability of predictions in tunnel support design and provide a solid foundation for engineering decisions in heterogeneous rock masses.

Dr Ali Ghanbari, Dr Mohammad Nakhaee, Dr Saeed Kalani, Dr Hamidreza Azizi,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (Accepted Articles 2025)
Abstract

Land subsidence represents a multifaceted geotechnical hazard that exerts profound impacts on environmental stability, infrastructure resilience, and socio-economic security. This research presents a systematic field-based assessment of subsidence manifestations across the Hashtgerd, Eshtehard, and Karaj plains in Alborz Province, derived from extensive surveys conducted during the spring and summer of 2025. Diagnostic indicators—including extensional and compressional ground fissures, localized structural deformations, wellhead displacements, large-scale surface cracks, and variations in groundwater levels—were systematically documented. The Hashtgerd plain, particularly the Saeidabad, Sepehr, and Najmabad areas, exhibited the highest density of subsidence evidence, encompassing progressive surface settlements, widespread fissuring, and instability of near-surface strata. In the Eshtehard plain, structural cracking in school buildings, ground ruptures adjacent to transmission towers, and failures in retaining walls were frequently observed. Deep surface fissures were also identified in the Fathabad region, situated between Eshtehard and Buin Zahra. Conversely, despite significant groundwater withdrawal, field surveys in parts of the Karaj plain revealed no pronounced subsidence indicators. The findings highlight a strong spatial correlation between the severity of subsidence and geological heterogeneity, unregulated groundwater exploitation, and the absence of smart metering systems in wells. This study underscores the urgent need for integrated monitoring frameworks, adaptive management strategies, and the application of advanced remote sensing technologies to mitigate and control the expansion of land subsidence in Alborz Province.
 

Akramalsadad Ghadami, Houshang Khairy, Ebrahim Rahimi,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (Accepted Articles 2025)
Abstract

Land subsidence is a major geomorphological hazard in arid and semi-arid regions, primarily driven by excessive groundwater extraction. In such areas, declining water tables can cause irreversible compaction of fine-grained sediments, reduced aquifer storage capacity, and damage to critical infrastructure. This study aims to monitor subsidence rates in the Damghan aquifer and analyze their relationship with groundwater level decline using satellite imagery and ground-based data. The study area covers approximately 1,522 km² of the Damghan aquifer in Semnan Province, characterized by a layered and heterogeneous alluvial structure. Data sources include Sentinel-1A radar images (2017–2021), groundwater level records from 38 observation wells (2012–2019), and drilling logs from 13 production wells. Radar data were processed using SNAP software, and spatial-temporal analyses were conducted in ArcGIS and GMS environments. Results indicate that groundwater levels in central and southeastern parts of the aquifer have declined by over 7 meters, with an average annual drop of 0.46 meters. Radar interferometry maps revealed subsidence rates of up to 32 cm in these zones. Soil texture and saturated layer thickness analyses showed that areas with high clay and silt content are more sensitive to water level decline and subsidence. Zoning results indicate that 44% of the aquifer surface is affected, with the highest rates observed in zones with alluvial thickness exceeding 230 meters. Field evidence—including surface fissures, well damage, sinkholes, and structural failures—highlights the practical implications of this phenomenon. Findings underscore the urgent need for continuous groundwater monitoring and targeted management to mitigate infrastructure risks and ensure environmental sustainability.
 


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