INFLUENCE OF NATURAL FACTORS ON PIT WALL STABILITY: A CASE STUDY FROM THE KALMAKIR OPEN-PIT MINE

Pit wall stability in open-pit mines is directly affected by natural geological and climatic factors. This study focuses on the Kalmakir open-pit mine, assessing the effects of rainfall, seismicity, groundwater levels, and lithological composition on slope deformation. Using field instrumentation, laboratory testing, and numerical modeling with Slide2, various instability scenarios were simulated. Results revealed that rainfall infiltration and elevated groundwater levels drastically reduce the factor of safety (FoS), particularly in weathered rock zones. Complementary slope monitoring data validated the numerical findings. Recommendations include the implementation of real-time drainage management, targeted reinforcement, and seasonal excavation strategies.