Abstract:

The construction of tunnels have an impact on the intrinsic characteristics of karst groundwater system, such as the fall of the water table or the loss of surface springs. In this paper, the variation characteristics of karst groundwater system in southwest  China under tunnel engineering conditions is summarized and is divided into three categories according to the types(covered, uncovered and buried)of the aquifers, structural features, supply characteristics, the runoff ways of karst water and the engineering characteristics of tunnel construction. The paper also presents typical examples (Jinzhi river groundwater system)illustrating the analysis process that different tunnel plans produce different effects on karst groundwater system, and compares the results with available tunnel seepage volume. As a result, the study can be used as a reference for the geological disaster prevention of tunnel water-bursting.

Key words:  karst, groundwater system, tunnel engineering, water bursting, southwest China