The inbound lane of the Wellington-Masiaka Highway at One Pole, Allen Town, the K5 section of the Highway, was reopened to traffic on 2nd December.
On 28th July of this year, a slope failure occurred at One Pole, the K5 section along the Wellington-Masiaka Highway as a result of the illegal encroachment and excavation of the slope running adjacent to the highway. This unauthorized and excessive excavation led to the collapse of the slope and the subsequent destruction of some drainage facilities. Consequently, the disaster posed a significant threat to road traffic, the safety of pedestrians and nearby residents and created looming the risk of further landslides.
In response to the precarious situation, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) conducted a rapid on-site assessment that resulted in the implementation of the temporary closure of the single-lane, to ensure public and vehicular safety. Meanwhile, China Railway Seventh Group (CRSG) promptly mobilized its combined human and material assets, which included highly skilled engineers, support personnel, heavy machinery and pre-financed construction materials to undertake nearly four (4) months of emergency repairs. All emergency work was fully pre-financed by CRSG.
Despite the challenges, such as, persistent heavy rainfall, hazardous terrain, and material shortages, CRSG was able to complete the slope reinforcement work on 20th November, thus fully eliminating any risk to public and vehicular safety. On the 2nd of December 2024, the traffic restrictions were lifted and normal traffic resumed at One Pole, the K5 section. CRSG will execute permanent repair and strength in due course.
CRSG has always been and remains a reliable partner for the Government and People of Sierra Leone. Whether it’s when responding to the Freetown mudslide disaster in 2017, aiding in COVID-19 pandemic prevention in 2020, or undertaking emergency repairs of the Savage Bridge, CRSG has consistently demonstrated the uttermost professionalism and commitment that are the hallmarks of a top tier multinational company.
The Wellington-Masiaka Highway signifies a milestone project in the history of China-Sierra Leone socioeconomic cooperation. It is operated and maintained under extremely high standards, efficiently administered, and of outstanding engineering quality. The highway is providing a safe and convenient means for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. This recent landslide repair further highlighted CRSG’s prioritization of Sierra Leone’s interests and its capability to address complex engineering challenges during emergency conditions.
CRSG Sierra Leone Company remains dedicated to serving the nation, contributing to its socioeconomic development and fostering stronger ties between China and Sierra Leone.
