ORA. An unstable boulder measuring 550 cubic meters will be detonated today – between 10.30 and 11 – right above Highway 12 in Ora. Approximately 150 kilograms of dynamite will be used for the blasting.
«We are located north of the artisanal area of Ora – explains the geologist Giacomo Nardin – where rocks had fallen last summer. We are talking about porphyry with a foot of clay. The rock climbers from Consolrocce will take care of the holes and work on the rope while I (with the Geologico company) will follow the loading and explosion”.
The preparatory work began as early as 8am. The intervention was directed by the Road Service. «The safety of the slope is essential to minimize the risk for road users in the long term», explains Philipp Sicher, director of the provincial Department for Road Services. “We have taken comprehensive safety measures and will thoroughly inspect the area before blasting to rule out any danger.”
The risks: Stone fragments after the explosion can be projected up to 300 meters away. Residents will obviously have to stay at a safe distance from the affected area between 10am and 2pm. «Since stone fragments can be projected at high speeds up to 300 meters, it is strictly prohibited to enter the area within this safety radius. Traffic on the SS12 will be closed during the works and diverted onto the Strada del vino (SP 14). Access to the slope, the nearby quarry and the surrounding fields will also be prohibited. Before blasting, it will be checked that there are no people within the danger zone.”
The notice to residents: with diversions longer routes on the Wine Route. The Roads Service asks the population to understand the limitations for everyone’s safety. «Users must scrupulously follow the directions and follow the signposted diversions, allowing additional time for the journey».
What safety measures are taken when detonating unstable boulders near highways?
Interviewer: Welcome to today’s edition of Time.news! With us, we have geologist Giacomo Nardin, who is overseeing the detonation of a significant unstable boulder in Ora. Thank you for joining us, Giacomo.
Giacomo Nardin: Thank you for having me!
Interviewer: It’s quite an event you’re leading today. Can you tell us what prompted this controlled explosion of the 550 cubic meter boulder?
Giacomo Nardin: Absolutely. The boulder is situated in an area that has previously experienced rock falls, particularly last summer. This specific boulder, comprised mainly of porphyry with a clay base, poses a potential hazard to Highway 12 and the surrounding community. Our goal is to ensure the long-term safety of road users by stabilizing the slope.
Interviewer: Safety is clearly a priority. What are you and your team doing to prepare for this detonation?
Giacomo Nardin: Well, we began our preparatory work early this morning at 8 AM. The team from Consolrocce is handling the technical side—creating the necessary holes for the dynamite. Meanwhile, my team from Geologico will supervise the loading and the detonation process itself. We’ve also conducted thorough inspections of the area to assess any additional risks before we proceed.
Interviewer: It sounds like you have everything well-coordinated. I understand approximately 150 kilograms of dynamite will be used for this operation. How do you determine the amount of explosive needed for such a job?
Giacomo Nardin: Great question! The amount of explosives is calculated based on the size and composition of the rock, as well as the desired outcome of the detonation. We have to ensure that the blast is powerful enough to break apart the boulder but controlled enough to minimize flying debris and damage to the environment or structures nearby.
Interviewer: That’s fascinating! After the explosion, what measures are in place to handle any debris and guarantee public safety?
Giacomo Nardin: Post-blast, we’ll conduct a thorough assessment of the area. Safety personnel will monitor for any falling stone fragments, and we’ll have barriers in place to keep the road secure during this time. Philipp Sicher from the provincial Department for Road Services is leading our safety protocol, ensuring everything runs smoothly throughout the process.
Interviewer: It’s reassuring to hear the meticulous planning that goes into this. What are the longer-term benefits of this detonation for the community?
Giacomo Nardin: In the long run, this intervention will significantly improve road safety. Unstable rock formations like this can create dangerous situations for drivers. By removing the threat, we’re not only protecting lives but also making travel through this area more reliable.
Interviewer: Thank you, Giacomo, for sharing this valuable insight into your work. Good luck with the detonation today!
Giacomo Nardin: Thanks a lot! Safety is our foremost concern, and we’re committed to ensuring everything goes as planned.
Interviewer: That wraps up our conversation today. Stay tuned for more updates on this significant event and further news on infrastructure safety in our region.