Slopes near the landslide zone formed during the June 13, 2015 disaster in Tbilisi’s Vere River Gorge have not been fully stabilized, according to a new geological study by the Institute of Earth Sciences. Researchers warn that the area remains vulnerable to renewed geological activity, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
Using satellite radar imaging, geophysical methods, simulations and laboratory analysis, scientists found that the slope is in a “quasi-stable” state, moving several millimeters to centimeters per year, explained study co-author Lasha Sukhishvili. Although the immediate risk of collapse is low, prolonged rain, earthquakes and human intervention, including road excavation and construction, could increase the danger.
Experts say physically reinforcing the entire 20-kilometer slope is impossible, making continuous monitoring and groundwater control essential. Sukhishvili also warned that monitoring equipment installed after the 2015 disaster was later switched off due to a lack of responsible personnel, undermining efforts to track the slope’s condition.
The institute plans to complete research on another unstable area located 1–2 kilometers upstream from the original disaster zone by the end of the year. Specialists recommend continued preventive engineering and geological measures, alongside a permanent monitoring system to reduce future risks.
