Update
MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The developers of the Menkenkop site in Hartenbos Heuwels area released an update this morning, 21 May, confirming that although the section of the gabion retaining wall that had collapsed had done so after the heavy rains’ run-off, their engineers have said that the hillside itself appears stable, and that temporary drainage measures are being put in place while the repairs are being undertaken carefully and safely.
The gabion wall had partially collapsed following the excessive heavy rainfall in Mossel Bay on 6 May. The developers, JGW Ontwikkelaars, sent out a statement to Mossel Bay Advertiser that same evening, identifying the cause of the collapse and stating that there was no immediate risk to public safety or the surrounding properties.
An update by JGW Ontwikkelaars’ project engineering team this morning said a follow-up site inspection and engineering assessment have been conducted at the embankment and retaining wall section.
“The section of retaining wall that experienced localised failure as a result of concentrated stormwater run-off from above the embankment has now been substantially removed,” it said.
“Based on current inspections and ongoing monitoring, the embankment remains stable, with no immediate indications of overall slope instability or progressive failure. As an interim precautionary measure, temporary stormwater mitigation works will be implemented to divert surface run-off into the existing stormwater channel situated above the embankment.”
The statement further said that these measures are intended to reduce further erosion and minimise additional hydraulic loading on the affected area.
“From a health and safety perspective, it is considered prudent engineering practice to first complete the repair and stabilisation of the affected wall section before positioning personnel, equipment or additional loads near the crest of the embankment. The site, construction activities and implementation procedures continue to be closely monitored to ensure that all remedial works are undertaken in a safe and controlled manner.”
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