TUNNEL CONSTRUCTION THROUGH HIGHLY KARSTIFIED LIMESTONE WITH LARGE CAVITIES: CASE OF VJETERNIK TUNNEL
Abstract
The construction of the Vjeternik tunnel, located on the Smokovac–Mateševo section in Montenegro, posed
significant engineering challenges due to its alignment through highly karstified limestone formations with large cavities.
During excavation, a massive cavern exceeding 30 meters in vertical extent was encountered, requiring urgent design
modifications and the implementation of specialized stabilization measures. These included steel arches, drainage
systems, and concrete slabs, with additional reinforcement applied to the inner lining. The paper highlights shortcomings
in prior geological investigations and emphasizes the need for more extensive engineering-geological and geophysical
surveys in future tunneling projects. It underscores the importance of experienced supervision and adaptive design
strategies. Although focused on tunneling, this paper is equally relevant to decision-makers responsible for funding
engineering-geological investigations.
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