Transport and Public Works
(1) (a) How many major rock and/or mud slides occurred in the Franschhoek Pass in the (i) 2016/17, (ii) 2017/18, (iii) 2018/19 and (v) 2019/20 to date financial years and (b) what is the risk level of more rock slides as determined by the recent geotechnical study;
(2) whether it is a priority for his Department to reopen the Franschhoek Pass following the closure as a result of the rock and mud slide in June 2019; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details;
(3) whether the Franschhoek Pass can temporarily be opened to traffic on days when the risks for rock or mud slides are deemed lower due to favourable weather conditions; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
(1) (a) (i) None, (ii) None, (iii) None and (v) Two consecutive events
at the same location.
(b) The geotechnical report only deals with the specific location in (v) above. The risk level of more rock slides at this location is high.
(2) Yes, it was a high priority.
(3) Yes, the Pass can be opened when the risks for rock or mud slides are deemed to be acceptable.
