YUSUFELI DAM RELOCATION ROADS PROJECT

The Yusufeli Dam Relocation Roads Project involves the construction of infrastructure necessary for the construction of the Yusufeli Dam, with particular attention to the D050 Artvin-İspir highway and the surrounding areas near Tunnel T14. One of the significant challenges of the project is the presence of unstable rock masses along the highway, which pose a serious risk of rockfalls. The implementation of rockfall protection systems was required to ensure the safety of the construction process and road users, particularly in regions characterized by surfical instabilities.

The volcanic rock mass along the highway is characterized by weathered, brownish-dark green surfaces and fresh, dark green and black fracture surfaces. The rock mass is highly fractured, with frequent and variously oriented discontinuities that intersect each other. This geological structure significantly increases the risk of rockfalls, especially in areas where these discontinuities intersect. In addition, free-hanging and unstable rock blocks were observed on the surface. These factors can create a major rockfall hazard to the highway, posing a threat to the traffic. Given the heavy rain and moisture environmental factors, it was expected that rockfalls could occur over time, creating a serious safety risk.

To mitigate the potential risks posed by rockfalls, a Drapery System (Passive) was implemented. This system was applied over a total area of 28,800 m², specifically targeting the most vulnerable sections of the highway where rockfalls were likely to occur. The drapery system were installed to prevent the falling of rock blocks, providing a passive and long-term protective solution. The drapery system effectively reduced the rockfall hazard, ensuring the safety of drivers.

The application of the Drapery (Passive) System not only addressed immediate safety concerns but also provided a solution to the ongoing risk of rockfalls, preventing potential hazards from affecting the road and surrounding infrastructure.