Desk Study and Literature Review

• Geological Mapping: Review geological maps and reports to identify the extent of dolomite formations and potential sinkhole-prone areas.

• Historical Records: Examine historical records of sinkhole occurrences and subsidence events in the area.

• Hydrogeological Information: Gather information on groundwater levels, flow directions, and potential sources of water ingress.

Site Investigation

• Visual Inspection: Conduct a visual inspection of the site to identify any surface manifestations of dolomite instability, such as sinkholes, cracks, or subsidence.

• Geophysical Surveys: Employ geophysical techniques like ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) to map subsurface cavities and anomalies.

• Borehole Drilling: Drill boreholes to assess the depth and extent of dolomite, identify potential voids, and collect soil and rock samples for laboratory testing.

• Laboratory Testing: Analyze soil and rock samples to determine their engineering properties, such as strength, permeability, and mineralogy. 

   

Risk Assessment

• Sinkhole Susceptibility Assessment: Evaluate the site’s susceptibility to sinkhole formation based on geological factors, hydrogeological conditions, and historical data.

• Risk Categorization: Classify the site into different risk categories based on the severity and likelihood of sinkhole occurrence.

Development Planning and Mitigation Measures

• Site Layout: Plan the development layout to minimize the impact on potentially unstable areas and avoid critical infrastructure placement over high-risk zones.

• Foundation Design: Design foundations that can accommodate potential settlement and differential settlement.

• Drainage Systems: Implement effective drainage systems to minimize water infiltration into the dolomite formation.

• Monitoring and Maintenance: Establish a monitoring program to detect early signs of instability and implement timely remedial measures.

Important Considerations:

• Local Regulations: Adhere to local regulations and guidelines for development on dolomite land.

• Expert Consultation: Consult with experienced geotechnical engineers and hydrogeologists to ensure proper assessment and mitigation.

• Ongoing Monitoring: Implement a long-term monitoring program to track changes in the site’s stability and adjust mitigation measures as needed.

By following these steps and considering the specific characteristics of the site, it is possible to mitigate the risks associated with dolomite instability and ensure the long-term sustainability of development projects.