Geotechnical Challenges for Underground Infrastructure in Qatar: Hydrogeological Assessment for Dewatering and Deep Excavation Works: South of Wakrah Pumping Station and Outfall (SWPSO) Project

Abstract

The evaluation of hydrogeological conditions and groundwater inflows, as part of the geotechnical risk assessment, poses one of the key challenges during the design and construction of major infrastructure projects and underground works. This paper presents an example of a recently developed geotechnical and hydrogeological investigation program for the Pre-Tender design of the South of Wakrah Pumping Station and Outfall project in Qatar, where a comprehensive hydrogeological study was carried out to characterize heterogeneous hydrogeological conditions along the project area and to determine potential impacts on the groundwater levels drawdown and groundwater inflows during excavation and dewatering activities. The results of the hydrogeological evaluation concluded that a proper groundwater management approach and mitigation measures are required at an early stage of the project to minimize the impact on dewatering, groundwater inflows and groundwater levels drawdown for construction works. A similar approach can be adopted for future infrastructure projects to support the geotechnical risk assessment and to minimize the impact of construction activities on the environment.