@article{article_1769559, title={FIELD STUDIES INVESTIGATING THE EFFECTS OF KARSTIC FORMATIONS ON ENGINEERİNG STRUCTURES IN SIIRT PROVINCE}, journal={Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi}, volume={29}, pages={111–123}, year={2026}, DOI={10.17780/ksujes.1769559}, url={https://izlik.org/JA46ZC72JJ}, author={Gülen, Murat and Ayhan, Ersin}, keywords={Karst formations, dynamic effects, loss of bearing capacity, sudden settlement, stability}, abstract={Limestone and dolomite are carbonate rocks that gradually dissolve when exposed to groundwater and surface water, leading to the development of karstic features. Rainwater containing weak carbonic acid enlarges existing fractures and joints, forming voids, caves, and underground channels. These structures are highly sensitive to external influences such as structural loads, rainfall, groundwater fluctuations, climatic variations, and seismic activity. Even small hydrogeological or dynamic changes can disrupt the stability and cause sudden settlement or collapse. Understanding these processes is essential for ensuring the safety of engineering structures founded on carbonate terrains. In Siirt Province, karstic carbonate rocks are widespread in areas where various engineering structures are located. While these units seem stable under natural conditions, external factors can cause abrupt losses in bearing capacity and surface deformation, adversely affecting structural performance. This study evaluates more than 700 boreholes, supported by geophysical measurements and field observations across 147 plots. Additionally, several case studies were examined to identify mechanisms of stability loss in different parts of the province. The findings highlight that thorough geotechnical and geophysical investigations are necessary prior to construction in karst-prone zones. Integrating geological and hydrogeological data into urban planning is also crucial for ensuring safe and sustainable development.}, number={1}