Jade Jungwirth
The deluge of rain seen across Victoria over the past few weeks has resulted in significant damage to road surfaces around the state.
In areas such as Newstead and Axedale, the effects of the floods have resulted in large sections of bitumen separating and breaking away completely, making the roads impassable.
The recent rains have created an enormous amount of damage to already compromised road surfaces creating hazardous driving conditions.
The potholes are largely caused by rainwater pooling in cracks in the bitumen, which results in a softening of the soil underneath and weakening of the surface, causing the bitumen to crack.
“Periods of above-average rainfall like we are experiencing now with La Niña can cause more potholes to develop on our roads, which is why we have crews out inspecting every kilometre of our road network on a regular basis, identifying and repairing hazards if and when they do occur.” Department of Transport regional director, Melanie Hotton, told the Express.
Before the recent floods, DOT was anticipating spending the next eight months carrying out individual projects on the region’s busiest transport and travel routes including sections of the Calder Highway, Lancefield-Tooboorac Road, and Tylden-Woodend Road, however, with the significant number of flood-related hazards, this time frame may vary.
“To make sure we can deliver long-term repairs that will last, we carry out the majority of our maintenance works in warmer, drier weather conditions, including hundreds of kilometres of resurfacing and sealing work, which helps to safeguard against water damage and extend the lifespan of roads,” Ms Hotton said.
During winter DOT focuses on routine maintenance that delivers quick fixes for issues such as potholes or minor pavement failures.
According to DOT potholes on arterial roads are typically repaired within 24 hours of being reported by crews or members of the public.
Trauma counsellor and member of the Rail Revival Alliance, Scott Ramsay, was concerned about the condition of the state’s regional roads even before the recent wet weather.
“The state government is showing complete and utter negligence and culpability in the deteriorating and crumbling condition of regional Victorian roads through the lack of maintenance and an excessive number of trucks on the roads,” Mr Ramsay said.
Members of the community who come across potholes or any other damage on roads are encouraged to report them by calling the dedicated Department of Transport customer service hotline on 13 11 71.
