Geologists and engineers inspected a section of the III-8641 road connecting Smolyan and Pamporovo that has been severely impacted by a massive landslide. Marin Kushev, director of the regional road authority in Smolyan, reported that the team assessed options for immediate temporary stabilization and the construction of a bypass to restore traffic flow pending a permanent solution. The working group, which included engineer Kalin Kalchev and representatives from the road maintenance company, conducted an on-site evaluation.
According to Kushev, the primary feasible option identified is utilizing an existing road that passes above the immediate landslide zone. Authorities plan to inspect affected properties to determine the viability of widening this route and establishing passing points to temporarily accommodate vehicular traffic. While initial specialist observations suggest the terrain is in relatively stable condition, a final assessment remains pending.
The estimated length for this potential temporary bypass is approximately one and a half kilometers. Furthermore, the possibility of an alternative route below the landslide, along a forest track, was reviewed but was also found to be obstructed by displaced earth masses. Experts noted that the scale of the landslide is extensive, complicating the implementation of rapid recovery measures.
Work to analyze all options for restoring the road continues. Kushev indicated that a determination regarding the usability of this temporary bypass is expected early next week, stating that this option represents the quickest path to reopening the route, despite being temporary and presenting certain logistical challenges.
Topics: #road #landslide #pamporovo
