Replacement pipes have been installed below the Princes Highway at Bunga Creek, east of Lakes Entrance.
108 concrete pipes, approximately 2.4m in diameter and weighing nearly 7 tonne each, have been installed more than 10 metres below the original surface.
Work has commenced on the massive task of backfilling the 25,000 tonnes of soil above the road’s surface. The timing of this step is largely dependent on the weather, as dry conditions are required to move and compact the fill.
It is anticipated the first lane of traffic will be returned to the original highway within 2-3 weeks. Traffic lights will be in place and weather permitting both lanes will be open prior to Christmas.
Crews have been working long days to get the highway opened as soon as possible. In the meantime, the purpose built sidetrack is being well utilised by locals and passing traffic.
Failing culverts under the road and associated movement forced the emergency closure of the highway in September.