Characteristics and prevention measures of karst collapses in the Jingdezhen urban area, Jiangxi Province

Through the 1:50 000 regional hydrogeology and environmental geology investigations, geological features and development rule of karst collapses in Jingdezhen urban district, Jiangxi Province were investigated by means of geophysical prospecting,drilling, etc. The carbonate bedrock in the city of Jingdezhen is characteristic of obvious undulation, shallow karst development and a lot of soil caves. The overlying Quaternary strata show complex lithological structure, variable thickness of generally less than 20m, and shallow groundwater. By analyzing distribution, forming conditions and induced controlling factors, it can be concluded that the drainage of groundwater is the main inducement factor for karst collapses in this area. On the basis of predicting the development trend of karst collapses, authors also conducted a preliminary forecast for vulnerable areas of karst collapse, and proposed corresponding protection and prevention measures. This will provide reference for urban engineering construction and environmental protection.