Inspecting Hill Slopes

Currently it is rainy season here which is normal every year end. However for those involve in construction line especially those working at hillside areas, they can’t sleep easy. This is because in this time landslide always happens.

Recently, there were two big disasters on landslide happened in Malaysia. One was in Ulu Yam killing 2 siblings and another one just recently happened last week at Bukit Antarabangsa in Selangor. This time 4 were killed and one is still missing.

My current project is not exceptional also, there is a big hill cut here. Previously this area was a toe of hill, but later it was cut to allow for the construction of a 6 storey block which is still under construction. The slopes is almost complete except lower part which is yet to cut. Technically we apply slope cutting 1:1.5 gradient to these slopes, provide proper drainage, plant turf on the slopes and soon will install horizontal drains.

Hill cut at my project

However for further precaution, a few days ago together with contractor we did joint inspection at this cut hill to make sure there is no clogging at drainage system as well as checking if there are signs of movements and etc. Any wild plants covering and disturbing the function of hill drains have been removed. We pray that this big cut safe and brings no harm to those reside nearby.

Earthworks, slope erosion and mud flood

Recently, I was not happy with the contractor. I had numerously highlighted to the project manager long-long time ago from the beginning of earthworks to monitor the slopes and take appropriate rectification actions if the slopes found to be not in order.

While doing regular inspection at site, I found one slope was in bad condition. The slope erodes and brings mud flood to nearby operating facilities. You can see in the photo below.

This should not happen if the contractor provides temporary drainage at the top and bottom of the slopes plus with temporary slope protection such as planting close turf on the slopes. If not repaired, this will destabilize the slope structure and will affect road works nearby. The drawings and specifications have details on these but it seems the contractor fails to follow.