A Review of Modern Techniques for Slope Behaviours Analysis and Prediction of Slope Failure in Mines

Abstract

Instability in a mining slope can catastrophically endanger the lives of miners. The occurrence of slope instability has the potential to impede the production chain in a mine, ultimately leading to a financial loss for the company. Over the years it is observed that slope failure is one of the major causes of fatalities in mines and as a result considered as one of the principal hazards in the mining industry. In Indian coal mining industry, the recent disasters are also due to slope failures causing 23 fatalities in 2016. The ability to forecast the onset of slope failure is imperative due to the potential hazard posed by slope movement. Over the last few decades, advancements in slope monitoring technology have facilitated the rapid and accurate scanning of extensive rock surfaces with sub-millimetre precision. The information obtained from radar instruments is widely accepted to forecast slope failures. Nevertheless, accurately determining the failure time has posed a significant challenge. This work aims to highlight various tools, techniques and methods employed in enhancing the accuracy of slope failure behaviour analysis and prediction of slope failures which ultimately improves the safety standards of the mine. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.