GIS-Based Estimation of Slope Stability

Abstract

In this paper a decision support system is presented, which integrates the technology of geographical information systems in evaluating slope stability. A dynamic tool has been developed in ARC/INFO 7.0.1 Macro Language, the “Landslide Hazard Assessment Tool,” which produces safety factor contours giving, as an output, a landslide hazard zonation map. The factors contributing to the manifestation of the phenomenon have been studied as well as the geomorphologic and quantitative information referring to the geotechnical parameters. To represent and interactively examine the results, a series of thematic maps have been created, using this overlay concept of geographical information systems. The study area is located in Vouraikos Valley, in northern Peloponeese, Greece. This particular area has been selected in order to test the model in an area strongly affected by landslides, belonging to the neotectonic regime of the Gulf of Corinth. The final conclusion is that proper implementation of engineering geological information can decrease the geohazard vulnerability of infrastructure. Such a model could be most helpful in the stage of decision making in the construction industry.