Analysis of Slope Stability Using SLOPE/W Software

Landslide is a natural phenomenon that causes a huge threat to life and livelihood and the effects may vary from minor disruption to big catastrophes. Rainfall is an intrinsic factor for slope failure in the Western Ghats of Kerala. An increase in the frequency and adverse impact of slope failure demands slope stability analysis. Kerala lies in the tropical region, and is influenced by heavy monsoon rains. The present study describes the analysis of landslides that occurred at Muvattupuzha, Ernakulam district, Kerala on 27 June 2015. Detailed laboratory investigations on the soil sample were carried out to determine the index properties and engineering properties. The results of laboratory studies were utilized to perform a slope stability analysis using SLOPE/W, a limit equilibrium software. Stability analysis is conducted using the limit equilibrium method, which involves cutting the slope into a series of slices, and equilibrium equations are employed to calculate the factor of safety.