Slope Reinforcement Solution: Mitigating Landslide Risks on the Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh Railway

Each year, the Ru Ri Pass tunnel experiences two to three landslides, endangering railway safety and disrupting train operations. The northern side of he tunnel, with its complex terrain, is particularly prone to frequent landslides, making this a pressing issue for Vietnam’s railway sector, especially during the rainy season.

To mitigate landslide risks, the Railway Management Board No.1 under the Vietnam Railways Corporation has selected a high-tensile steel mesh reinforcement system, combined with rock anchors (Hr30) and a three-axis geogrid polymer anti-erosion net, as the primary slope stabilization solution. Vinh Hung Trading, Consulting, and Construction JSC has been entrusted as the main contractor for this critical project, marking its first collaboration with Vietnam Railways Corporation. The project began construction on August 4, 2024 and is expected to be completed by October 30, 2024.

The high-tensile steel mesh system, combined with rock anchors and a three-axis geogrid, offers a comprehensive solution to slope reinforcement, effectively preventing rockfalls and stabilizing slope surfaces. This technology is particularly beneficial in areas with groundwater, as the open-mesh structure allows for natural drainage.

By integrating high-tensile steel mesh with polymer geogrids in mixed soil and rock areas, this solution not only prevents erosion but also promotes natural vegetation growth on the slope after installation. As a flexible solution adaptable to various slope surfaces, it does not add additional load to the slope. The open structure allows free drainage, eliminating the need for a dedicated drainage system. The steel mesh, coated with advanced anti-corrosion technology, ensures a service life of up to 50 years, depending on environmental conditions. Maintenance is simple, damaged sections can be easily replaced with new mesh panels. Additionally, short construction process does not require heavy machinery, allowing for seamless implementation without disrupting railway operations.

Despite its benefits, the project faces significant challenges, especially the complex construction conditions and continuous train operations, which required precise coordination of equipment and personnel. To ensure timely completion, the project management team has implemented several key strategies:

• Close collaboration with relevant authorities to expedite land clearance and site handover.
• Coordination with railway operators to ensure safe construction without train service disruptions.
• Round-the-clock construction with a three-shift system, working through all weather conditions.
• Scientific project management, strict quality control, and rigorous safety supervision to meet construction standards.
• Simultaneous execution of construction and procedural approvals through close coordination with the investor and supervision consultants.

By adopting this state-of-the-art reinforcement technology, the Ru Ri Pass project not only enhances railway safety but also protects passengers, trains, and infrastructure assets from landslide-related risks. The high-tensile steel mesh system, combined with rock anchors and polymer geogrids, provides a groundbreaking approach to securing slopes along the North-South railway.

This pioneering solution demonstrates the crucial role of advanced engineering in strengthening Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure, ensuring safer and more resilient railway operations for the future.