Further studies to be done in respect of sinkhole on N1 south
“There are areas where the speed limit is 60km per hour, and in other areas, 80km per hour. This will minimise the risk of accidents taking place in the vicinity of the sinkhole.”
The South African Roads Agency Limited (Sanral) is performing further tests on the sinkhole that formed at the beginning of January on the N1 southbound just after the R21 turn-off.
According to Progress Hlahla, manager of Sanral’s northern region, they have received the geological assessment report, but “it remains an internal document for now”.
“We have addressed the diversion of storm water and created a new drainage system to move the water away from the sinkhole for it not to expand.
“Cracks appeared on the freeway, which we have sealed,” said Hlahla.
Hlahla said Sanral conducted a drone survey where the land is subsident. They have now been able to assess that the 150m long area could be affected.
“Within the next week or so, we will proceed with micro-gravity sensing and perfusion drilling. All of this will assist us to do more testing.
“There are preliminary ideas for a solution, however, we will need to do further tests.”
Hlahla encouraged motorists to drive in accordance with the yellow regulatory signs that Sanral placed in the area.
“There are areas where the speed limit is 60km per hour, and in other areas, 80km per hour. This will minimise the risk of accidents taking place in the vicinity of the sinkhole.
“Please do not stop in the area to have a look at the hole, or to take photos of it.”
Hlahla said repairing the hole remains Sanral’s key priority, “we put our key minds at work”.
Rekord reported earlier Sanral’s initial assessment indicated that the sinkhole formed due to the heavy rains the area has had as sinkholes often occur in that specific dolomitic area.
Engineering specialists were on the scene and ground-penetrating radar was used to compile a geographic report.
Hlahla said it was uncertain how long it will take to repair the sinkhole.
ALSO READ: Huge sinkhole on N1 south a ‘danger zone’
Sinkholes are prevalent in Centurion due to dolomite deposits in the area. Especially heavy rainfall, water leaks, ponding, borehole drilling and building activities contribute to the formation of sinkholes, which are porous, act like a sponge when it gets wet and starts to crumble.
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