'All hands on deck situation': City of Calgary declares state of local emergency over water main break
CTV
The City of Calgary declared a local state of emergency Saturday morning in response to the latest developments's in a major water main break that is impacting the city.
The City of Calgary declared a local state of emergency Saturday morning in response to the latest developments's in a major water main break impacting the city.
Friday, city officials released an assessment that revealed five more hot spots require fixing, which they say will be done simultaneously using a number of private contractors in addition to city crews.
The early assessment suggests that it may take three to five more weeks to complete the repairs.
"The decision to declare a State of Local Emergency was not taken lightly, and it was done to ensure we are prepared for all eventualities in the drive to have this water feeder main restoration work done as quickly and safely as possible,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “I am grateful to the Government of Alberta for endorsing this approach and offering their support as we address this critical water situation."
Gondek said the local emergency declaration was related to the repair process which might involve going on private property. while doing repairs, and not to the water supply.
“The state of local emergency is not linked to the level of water in the reservoirs.” Gondek said, in reply to a question from a reporter.
Gondek said the city has reached out to industry for assistance to help fix the five hot spots simultaneously.
