Geotechnical study of the optimum design of the Chandmari Coppermine, Rajasthan, India

Geotechnical mapping was undertaken to determine the critical orientation of structural discontinuities. The geomechanical properties were determined in the laboratory and subsequently modified to approximate those of the in situ rock mass. Sensitivity analysis was undertaken to determine the influence of the slope design parameters on the safety factor. It was also used in determining the most suitable remedial measures for the critical slope. The analyses using the limit equilibrium method of open pit slopes indicate that an 148 m deep open pit is stable with 60° overall slope angle. Underground mining using an open sub-level stoping method is being conducted to exploit the remaining ore in the high slopes which could not be mined by open cast mining. Slope monitoring did not reveal any movement in and around the pit.