2. Civil Construction
Civil constructions consist of aspects related to reinforced concrete, cement plaster, random rubble,
bricks, steel and uPVC, etc. These types of material are also used for repair work. Constructions may
become unstable or vulnerable due to soil erosion, cracks which have formed due to heavy loads or
shock loads, deterioration over time, exposure of reinforcement, corrosion (steel), damage to uPVC
from exposure to sunlight, etc. Most damages happen to these components during the rainy season.
Maintenance work has to ensure that the necessary measures are taken to prevent the same faults from
happening again. A delay in a small repair can lead to bigger and more serious problems within days.
Damage to the channel’s reinforced concrete
Some general preventive maintenance steps on civil construction
• Construct a rubble wall to divert flood water
• Break any barriers (such as stones) that prevent the flow of flood water
• Divert storm water using gullies
• If the soil is loose, build retention walls with rubble or wood where necessary
• Use sand bags temporarily to prevent water flow when attending to repairs
• Remove any loosened rocks and boulders
• Plant and maintain trees (such as bamboo, lawn) where necessary to prevent soil erosion
Weir
Check whether the weir base has eroded or is getting eroded. Look for any seepage of water near the
weir. It is recommended that observations be made as to whether there is deterioration in the concrete
or cement components. Another type of damage which can take place is the washing away of the bank
of the stream across which the weir is built. The eroded places have to be filled with suitable material.
The driest season is the best time to identify any seepage from the weir and to attend to repairs. After
very unusually strong rain, the area in and around the weir has to be closely observed for any additional
rocks that block the flow of water or any loosening of constructions. While removing the rocks that block
the flow, repairing any damage is also vital. If required, build an additional side/retaining wall.
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