Natural Disaster Stops Production in Gariuai
The production of electricity in the Gariuai Mini Hydroelectric Power Plant has been stopped due to land movement along some parts of the area the penstock passes through.
About a month ago, the penstock in Gariuai started to move, and a part of it was lifted above the ground. This is an unusual happening, and caused a small leakage in the penstock, which immediately was emptied. Shortly thereafter, a large area of 150–200 decare suddenly sunk 2–3 metres, and the penstock was in some places pulled apart. The land that sunk has got big cracks, and some of these cracks are slowly expanding. We are now measuring the expansion of some of the cracks, with both horizontal and vertical movements.
Geotechnical experts are presently working at the site trying to find the reason for the natural disaster, as well as identifying possible actions to avoid further damaging developments, and finding a way for the penstock to cross the exposed area.
Gariuai Mini Hydroelectric Power Plant will remained closed down until the penstock has been repaired.
The access road to the disaster area has been cut off by the land movements. A project team is presently assessing the damages and will recommend further action.
Photo: Basil Rolandsen (Bouvet Foundation)
malaehulahula Said,
May 17, 2009 @ 20:22
Well, sacrifice a few chickens, geologists, engineers, and appease the gods. The show must go on…
Keep this project going.. .
Jangan susa… cepat perbaiki!
Thank you Norge Govt.and People for helping the Timorese get this vital project back on line.