Western Cape Winter 2023 | Emergency Road and Slope Repairs | Clarence Drive (R44)
The Western Cape experienced one of its wettest winters on record in 2023, leading to widespread washaways and slope failures. These events necessitated urgent road repairs and extensive slope stabilisation interventions.
Significant erosion occurred behind the abutment of the Palmiet Bridge, prompting temporary road closures and major reconstruction of the abutments and approach roads.
Along Clarence Drive, operations began with the clearing of debris, including the removal of large volumes of spoil and boulders.
Several washouts required geotechnical repairs, starting with drilling and the installation of soil nails, followed by the application of a gunite flash coat and topcoat finish.
Embankments and fills were reconstructed before reinstating the pavement layers and final road surfacing.
Repairs to stormwater drainage systems were carried out across multiple sites, with extensions to culverts implemented to improve the management of future water flow.
Due to the steep and challenging terrain, innovative and safe access methods were employed to reach work areas and carry out repairs efficiently.
