Machico Escarpment Stabilisation Sees Helicopter Lift for Safety Works
Ribeira Grande Slope Reinforcement Underway to Prevent Rockfalls
A private helicopter is currently a prominent sight in Machico, playing a crucial role in securing a hazardous escarpment prone to frequent rockfalls. This vital operation aims to safeguard homes below from potential dangers.
Slope Stabilization Project Underway
Machico municipality is undertaking significant efforts to stabilize a slope in the Ribeira Grande area. Mayor Ricardo Franco explained to the diary that the project’s objective is “an important work to stabilize a slope in the Ribeira Grande area, with the aim of protecting various housing from the risk of falling rock blocks.”
The comprehensive project involves the installation of a 170-meter dynamic barrier. This weekend marks a critical phase with a complex material transportation operation by helicopter, necessitating the temporary closure of a section of the Mariços Road.
Investment and Technical Expertise
The initiative represents a total investment of 215,980.00 euros. The contract was awarded to Mota-Engil Engenharia, building upon prior technical assessments. These include a report from the Regional Civil Engineering Laboratory (LREC) and a detailed technical solution provided by Italian specialist manufacturer MacCaferri. The majority of the investment, €178,007.00, is allocated for the supply and installation of the protective barrier itself.
The entire work is scheduled for completion within a 90-day period. So far, 19 units, each weighing 600 pounds and standing 4 meters high, have been successfully put in place.
Recent government reports indicate that infrastructure projects aimed at mitigating natural disaster risks, such as landslide prevention, are becoming increasingly crucial. For example, in 2023, Japan invested over $7 billion in slope reinforcement and disaster prevention systems following significant rainfall events (Source: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Japan).
The ongoing operation has naturally drawn significant attention and curiosity from local residents witnessing the aerial activity.