Contributions of geophysical methods in determining the causes of lake shore landslides - The case of Bau Trang, Bac Binh district, Binh Thuan province, Vietnam

Abstract

Landslides pose a significant threat to infrastructure, human safety, and the environment, particularly in areas with weak geological formations. This study investigates the causes of landslides along the Bau Trang lake shore in Bac Binh District, Binh Thuan Province, Central Vietnam, using a combination of geophysical methods: Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and vibration measurements. ERT was employed to assess soil resistivity and water saturation levels, while GPR provided insights into subsurface structures. Additionally, vibration monitoring was conducted to evaluate the impact of off-road vehicle activity on soil stability. The results revealed the presence of saturated low-resistivity soil layers, which contribute to ground weakening and increased landslide susceptibility. Furthermore, mechanical vibrations induced by tourism-related activities were identified as a major destabilizing factor. These findings provide a scientific basis for formulating mitigation strategies aimed at reducing landslide risks and preserving the ecological integrity of the Bau Trang lake area.