Sidewalk Sinkhole on New Mexico Bridge Triggers Rescue of Pedestrians
Date
5/15/2023 7:56:47 AM
(MENAFN) Authorities in Los Lunas, New Mexico, are assessing the damage caused by a sidewalk sinkhole that developed on the Main Street bridge over the Rio Grande. The incident resulted in the rescue of two pedestrians who were trapped near the sinkhole. The bridge remains closed as officials work to determine the extent of the damage caused by the sinkhole.
According to Kimberly Gallegos, a spokeswoman for the New Mexico Department of Transportation District 3, the sinkhole was caused by nearby culverts that undermined the roadway. The erosion caused by the culverts led to the development of the sinkhole under a sidewalk on the east side of the bridge. The high water levels in the area are also affecting the culverts, making it difficult for officials to assess the damage.
Reports from Saturday night initially suggested that the bridge had partially collapsed, but authorities have since clarified that this was not the case. The New Mexico Department of Transportation officials were on the scene on Sunday, working to determine the extent of the damage caused by the sinkhole on one of Valencia County's main roads.
The Los Lunas Fire Chief, John Gabaldon, reported that a water line had to be shut off to prevent further problems if a pipe running through the sinkhole broke. The incident highlights the importance of regular infrastructure maintenance and inspection to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
The sinkhole on the Main Street bridge over the Rio Grande has caused significant disruption to the local community, with the bridge remaining closed until further notice. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of infrastructure failures and the importance of prompt action to address such issues.
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