---
title: "Short note: Karst topography"
subject: "Engineering Geology I"
chapter: 6
key: "semester_3/engineering_geology_i:short-note-karst-topography"
source: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_3/engineering_geology_i/short-note-karst-topography
site: BCT Engineering
---

# Short note: Karst topography

Engineering Geology I · Chapter 6: Physical Geology

- Asked in: 2081 Chaitra (new course), 1 marks
- Video: [Formation of Karst Landscapes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMgattdqc_I) — Mr Gedge's Geography Channel
- Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort) on 2026-10-14
- Page: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_3/engineering_geology_i/short-note-karst-topography
- Whole chapter: https://www.bctengineer.com/md/semester_3/engineering_geology_i/chapter-6

## Question

Write a short note on Karst topography.

## Short answer

Karst topography is an irregular landscape of sinkholes, caves, disappearing streams, and springs formed by groundwater dissolving limestone and dolomite. It requires soluble rock, joints, and sufficient rainfall, and poses challenges for dams and tunnels due to leakage and collapse.

## Answer

**Karst topography** is the irregular landscape of sinkholes, caves, disappearing streams and springs formed by groundwater dissolving soluble rock, mainly limestone and dolomite. It is named after the Karst region of Slovenia. It needs soluble rock, a system of joints, and enough rainfall. In Nepal it is found in limestone areas, e.g. around Pokhara (Mahendra Cave). It is a problem for dams and tunnels because of leakage and collapse.

## Check yourself

The answer's key points as multiple-choice questions, with the correct option and why.

1. Karst forms by:
   A. Wind blasting
   B. Glacier plucking
   C. Groundwater dissolving soluble rock like limestone
   D. Lava flow
   Answer: C. Named after Karst region of Slovenia. (Key point: Origin)

2. Karst needs:
   A. Granite and drought
   B. Ice
   C. Lava
   D. Soluble rock, joint system and rainfall
   Answer: D. Joints guide water. (Key point: Conditions)

3. Why is karst a problem for dams and tunnels?
   A. Leakage and collapse
   B. Frost
   C. Too much clay
   D. Sand blast
   Answer: A. Caves and sinkholes. (Key point: Engineering)