Geotechnical Assessment of Seismic Vulnerability in the Built Environment of Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon

Nchini Livinus Wayih

Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Natural Resource and Environmental Management (NAREM) Programme, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon.

Mabel Nechia Wantim *

Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Natural Resource and Environmental Management (NAREM) Programme, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon and Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Disaster Risk Management Unit, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon.

Samuel Ndonwi Ayonghe

Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Disaster Risk Management Unit, University of Buea, P.O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

Introduction: Volcanic earthquakes may trigger severe hazards with considerable impact on the natural and built environment and the surrounding population.

Aim: Evaluate the geotechnical characteristics of soils in Fako division to estimate their seismic vulnerability and recommend suitable stabilization techniques to enhance the safety and resilience of built environments.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted over a period of 12 months beginning from June 2022 to May 2023.

Methodology: It employed a multi-criteria geotechnical approach, involving soil sampling, laboratory analysis, and seismic risk analysis. Soil samples collected from various locations within the study area, were subjected to laboratory tests to determine their plasticity (Atterberg limits) and load-bearing capacity (California Bearing Ratio - CBR). Historical data analysis and seismic hazard mapping were used to assess seismic vulnerability which helped to identify highly susceptible and unstable areas that may require engineered interventions.

Results: The findings revealed significant variations in soil plasticity and load-bearing capacity, correlating with observed settlement and instability issues in the region. Historical seismic events, highlighted significant structural damage in areas with high plasticity and low CBR values, underscoring the necessity for robust soil stabilization measures (geotechnical interventions) to mitigate seismic risks and enhance the resilience and safety of structures, reducing the risk of settlement and instability within the Mount Cameroon area, particularly Fako Division.

Keywords: Seismic susceptibility, geotechnical assessment, Mount Cameroon, seismic hazard, Fako division


How to Cite

Wayih, Nchini Livinus, Mabel Nechia Wantim, and Samuel Ndonwi Ayonghe. 2024. “Geotechnical Assessment of Seismic Vulnerability in the Built Environment of Fako Division, South West Region of Cameroon”. Journal of Geography, Environment and Earth Science International 28 (8):100-115. https://doi.org/10.9734/jgeesi/2024/v28i8801.