Key Takeaways
- A second digger has been added to the site to help clear major blockages in the Waioweka Gorge
- Safety is the top priority, and teams are assessing the gorge carefully before proceeding with clearance work
- A second container with Starlink and cameras has been equipped to provide reliable communications for contractors
- Clearance work will continue in a "leap-frog" style, with smaller slips being cleared quickly while the larger digger tackles major blockages
- The timeline for restarting clearance efforts from the Gisborne side is pending safety clearance, with current expectations of resuming early on Friday
Introduction to the Situation
The Waioweka Gorge has been affected by a significant slip, blocking State Highway 2 (SH2) and disrupting traffic flow. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has been working to clear the blockage, but the conditions on the ground have been changing rapidly due to the weather. The situation is being closely monitored, and the safety of the teams and the public is the top priority. The addition of a second digger to the site is a significant step forward in the clearance efforts, and it is expected to help tackle the major blockages in the gorge.
Assessment and Safety Precautions
The conditions in the gorge are being assessed carefully, and the teams are taking necessary safety precautions before proceeding with the clearance work. The heavy rain on Wednesday night caused flooding at the Gisborne entrance to the gorge, which prevented crews from accessing the site. However, the water has now receded, and the teams are assessing the conditions to confirm whether it is safe to proceed. The landscape has changed significantly since the storm, and a fresh geotechnical assessment may be required before work can resume. The NZTA is committed to ensuring the safety of the teams and the public, and they will not compromise on safety standards.
Clearance Work and Progress
The clearance work will continue in a "leap-frog" style, with smaller slips being cleared quickly while the larger digger tackles the major blockages. This approach will help to restore access to the gorge as quickly as possible. The second container, which was equipped with Starlink and cameras, will provide reliable communications for the contractors as they move deeper into the gorge. This will enable them to stay in touch with the teams and receive updates on the conditions in real-time. The NZTA is committed to keeping everyone updated on the progress, and they will provide regular updates on the clearance work.
Impact on Traffic and Detours
The blockage in the Waioweka Gorge has had a significant impact on traffic, with long detours required for vehicles traveling between Gisborne and the rest of the country. SH2 south of Gisborne is the only open route, and there has been a significant increase in traffic on this route. The high volumes of vehicles continuing through to Bayview have caused congestion, and drivers are advised to plan their journeys carefully and allow for extra time. The NZTA is working to restore access to the gorge as quickly as possible, and they appreciate the patience and understanding of the public during this time.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the clearance work in the Waioweka Gorge is ongoing, and the NZTA is committed to restoring access as quickly as possible. The addition of a second digger and the use of a second container with Starlink and cameras will help to accelerate the clearance work. The safety of the teams and the public is the top priority, and the NZTA will not compromise on safety standards. The public can expect regular updates on the progress, and they are advised to plan their journeys carefully and allow for extra time. The NZTA appreciates the patience and understanding of the public during this time and is working to restore access to the gorge as soon as possible.