Drivers using the N2 in recent months will have noticed the ongoing construction that slowed traffic and reduced speed limits to 50 km/h. The intercommunal water distribution association (SIDERE) had originally planned to take over a long-standing water conduit, but pressure tests revealed a total of six leaks that had to be addressed one by one.
Approximately 15,000 vehicles use the route between Bous and Remich daily. According to SIDERE engineer Alain Bourmer, the causes of the leaks were varied: poor initial placement, deterioration from disuse, and aging seals. “One of the conduits had been installed in 2007, and the other one in 2011, which is simply too long ago,” explains Bourmer. “The project didn’t happen as planned, everything should have worked according to a carefully-scheduled rhythm – especially since construction in Bous only started last year.
The water conduits were installed 20 years ago during the construction of a bypass in an effort to avoid future roadworks. However, since they were never used, they deteriorated over time. In addition, the involvement of multiple actors and slow authorisation processes slowed everything down even more.
“All underground infrastructure was renovated. We [SIDERE] handled the water supply together with the commune, while SIDEST, Creos, and Post managed other networks,” Bourmer adds. “The infrastructure around it is ready, so we are ready to start using the water pipeline.”
As the conduit had been in place for over 10 years without being used, the warranty had expired. What was meant to be a €20,000 pressure check and disinfection ended up costing €50,000. While not catastrophic within the context of the broader project, the cost overrun was still considered avoidable.
The roadworks are set to end by the end of the week, just in time for summer leave – although some construction continues in Bous.
