Heavy snowfalls and rain increase danger of caves-in

The recent heavy snowfall and rain increased the danger of craves-in and landfalls. Chisinau witnessed several cases of asphalt crumbling already and more are expected to follow, including on Columna and Balcani streets, Info-Prim Neo reports. But the crumbling is also caused by the poor quality of the asphalting works. 15 square meters of asphalt caved in at 121 Columna St owing to the works of a poor quality carried out several years ago. The caves-in on Balcani street are historical. The Chisinau authorities have tried to strengthen the zone for several years, but all in vain. The local public authorities yet say they do not have the financial resources needed to prevent caves-in and landslides. According to specialists of the Scientific Design Institute “Chisinau-Proiect”, the pluvial drainage channels are also in an unsatisfactory condition and cannot ensure the transportation of large volumes of water. They are often blocked with household waste. Efim Cheptanari, of the Chisinau road management company “Exdrupo”, said several days are needed to clear the pluvial channels and stop up the holes that appeared in the asphalt with gravel. But the portions of the road where the asphalt collapsed could be repaired only when it grows warmer. Weather forecasters say the danger of inundation will increase the next days as more rain and snow is expected.