Publications
Present day status and numerical modelling of heritage masonry bridges of Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railways
Heritage masonry bridges on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railways, constructed in 1905, exhibit measurable material degradation and seismic vulnerabilities. A study combining ambient vibration testing (AVT) with operational modal analysis (OMA) revealed discrepancies between field-measured modal parameters and initial numerical models, indicating structural changes likely due to aging or environmental factors. By refining these models through trial-and-error modal updation, researchers achieved a reliable representation of the bridges' current condition, providing critical insights for conservation efforts in seismic zone IV. This approach offers a novel method for assessing heritage structures without invasive testing.
Seismic Vulnerability Assessment of Multi-arch Gallery Masonry Bridges Adopting Different Seismic Analysis Procedures
Incremental dynamic analysis provides more significant seismic performance insights for heritage masonry bridges compared to nonlinear static analysis, though at greater computational cost. This study assessed the seismic vulnerability of two multi-arch gallery bridges from India's UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla Mountain Railway using advanced modeling and analysis techniques. Three-dimensional finite element models were developed in ABAQUS, employing macro-modeling and concrete damage plasticity for stone masonry. Nonlinear static analysis with two lateral loading patterns and incremental dynamic analysis using 30 site-specific accelerograms revealed critical control node displacements and tensile damage locations. While both methods identified vulnerabilities, incremental dynamic analysis proved more effective despite its higher computational demands.
Serviceability analysis and increased axle load performance of heritage arch gallery railway bridge
A heritage arch gallery railway bridge, part of the UNESCO-listed Kalka Shimla Mountain Railways, can sustain train speeds up to 40 km/h under current axle loading conditions. This finding emerges from a serviceability analysis and performance assessment conducted using finite element modeling (FE) and modal analysis techniques. Researchers developed an FE model based on available engineering drawings and reports, then refined it using data from ambient vibration tests (AVT) and operational modal analysis (OMA). The updated model allowed for the evaluation of the bridge's structural response to present-day axle loads and speeds, as well as the feasibility of increased speeds and higher axle loads. The study concluded that Bridge No. 541 meets serviceability conditions advised by both Indian Railways and international codes, providing critical insights for the preservation and operation of this historic railway infrastructure.
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