As sub-consultants to Wave Solutions of Australia, ARQ has put out to tender the construction of the 24m high Mukurumudzi embankment dam in south eastern Kenya.
The dam will be constructed to provide process water for the Kwale Mineral Sands Project, which aims to mine titanium and zircon minerals from the dunes in the area south of Mombasa.
The dam is configured as a homogeneous embankment of some 200 000 m3 silty-sand originating from the local area. With little suitable clay materials available, the impermeable membrane of the dam will comprise a central bentonite-cement-soil cut-off constructed successively with the embankment.
Flood handling will be managed through an uncontrolled ogee spillway over a saddle on the left bank.
The bi-modal rainfall seasons in southern Kenya require tight programming and careful river diversion strategies to maximise production and minimise risk. To meet the mining project deadlines, impoundment must commence by April 2013 to catch the “long rains” and commence impoundment.
Foundation drilling and grouting commenced in early October to be completed by the time the main dam contractor establishes on site In January 2012. |
