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Abstract

Summary

The Near Caves Hill of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra is a zone of active development of hazardous engineering-geological processes caused by excessive soil mass over-saturation and the activation of landslides under the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors. Cave complexes are located within the sandy loam layer of the hill’s soil mass in a landslide-prone zone. Long-term observations indicate that changes in hydrogeological conditions, caused by urbanisation since the second half of the 20th century, have led to fluctuations in groundwater levels and the development of soil over-saturation processes, which negatively affect the stability of the slope and the objects located within it. To establish the relationship between over-saturation and the activation of landslides, a comprehensive system of hydrogeological monitoring was implemented. The research methods included regular visual inspections, weekly measurements of groundwater levels in 20 observation wells, soil moisture monitoring, GIS mapping of moisture zones and the aquifer, as well as meteorological data analysis. According to the results of 35 years of monitoring, groundwater levels fluctuate between 0.9–3.2 m, with recharge occurring from atmospheric precipitation (59%), lateral inflow (22%), and leaks from water supply networks (19%). The retaining walls create a barrage effect, which causes over-saturation and reactivation of landslides. The obtained data made it possible to identify landslide risk zones and implement engineering protection measures, such as relief holes in the walls and a system of radial drains, which improved the stability of the Near Caves Hill.

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2025-09-15
2026-01-18
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