Big sewer collapse setback

NICOLE MATHEWSON

Last updated 12:35 14/04/2011

 

Traffic is being diverted on Ferry Road after a sewer collapsed under the street.

Civil Defence said the collapse, between Charlesworth Street and the Ferry Road roundabout, was caused by ground subsidence due to February's earthquake and a temporary fix could be weeks away.

Raw sewage from the area is being pumped directly into the Heathcote River.

Civil Defence director of infrastructure Jane Parfitt said the collapse is a setback, but shows how fragile the wastewater system is.

"There will be events like this as the city gets back onto its feet."

Traffic is being diverted along Humphreys Road and Linwood Avenue, while planned road closures on Dyers Road have been lifted to help manage diverted east-bound traffic.

A permanent fix will be part of the city's response to the quake, but a temporary fix on the four-metre deep sewer could take several weeks due, Civil Defence said.

Residents in the area are advised to continue using chemical toilets and portaloos