Evaluation and Repair of Sinkholes in Qatar

2. Gannett Fleming, Doha, Qatar

  Abstract: Many sinkholes were reported in Qatar over recent years and during the rapid infrastructure development. A sinkhole is a void in the ground caused by natural and/or manmade activities and is mainly associated with carbonate rocks and underground water movement. It occurs suddenly under pavement and manifests as a hole in the ground, with the potential to cause significant problems of road closure and interruption to road users and construction activities. This paper presents new guidelines for the evaluation and repair of sinkholes, which were developed and implemented by the Roads Operation and Maintenance Department (ROMD) at the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) in Qatar. It reviews the methodology adopted for the classification of sinkholes, application of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) technique for the early detection of subsurface voids and sinkholes before they become major problems, and the approach adopted for the repair of sinkholes. A case study is presented on repaired sinkhole, and the performance of repair area compared to adjacent pavement after 30 months in service. Successful implementation of the new guidelines contributes to enhanced management of road network in Qatar by maximizing asset performance and minimizing accidents and service disruption.

 Key words: carbonate rock, grout, foamed concrete, sinkhole geometry, repair strategy