Roland Fox, the head of the Bridges and Roads Authority, attributed the reduced speed to ensure safety amid the water leak between the Lorentzweiler Viaduct and the tunnel. According to Fox, the current operational status of the tunnel falls short of the ideal.
The decreased speed limit was implemented as a precaution to minimise the risk of accidents and serious incidents. Fox clarified that the water supply interruption necessitated additional measures for firefighting. The recent installation of water reservoirs adjacent to the tunnel has now secured the water supply.
Despite the challenges faced over the holidays in finding suitable companies and acquiring materials promptly, the water reservoirs have been successfully installed.
A series of tests is scheduled for Monday within the tunnel. If the tests yield positive results, the tunnel is expected to resume normal operational mode, allowing traffic to flow at the regular speed limit of 90 km/h.
