Quick response from emergency response team
THE newly opened Limerick Tunnel experienced two ‘emergencies’ inside the same number of days when truckers ignored height restrictions, causing a total closedown.
The emergency response team reacted promptly on Thursday and Friday when truck drivers failed to comply with three warnings on the approach to the tunnel, which is 4.9 metres in height and restricts vehicles over 4.65 metres.
“The incidents happened as trucks attempted to enter the tunnel at the northbound entrance and we had a lot of calls from motorists about the closure,” Tunnel operator Direct Routes general manager Tom King, told the Limerick Post.
“There are three detection systems and warnings on height restrictions as you approach the tunnel.
“Coming from the south an overhead sign will give a warning to the driver that it is above the height limit and must not enter the tunnel. “If this is ignored, the second warning is set off on the Dock Road Bridge, and a reduced speed limit of 50kph is introduced. “The third warning is beyond the sliproad to the tunnel and a visual and audio warning is issued. Automatic tunnel closure kicks in and the portal barriers are brought down, preventing traffic entering the tunnel, though traffic already in the tunnel can exit at the other side”.
Mr King explained that the control room is instantly aware of the problem and the emergency response team is deployed, but that delays are inevitably caused for motorists while the tunnel is closed.
“The response team open the right lane of the tunnel to allow traffic to pass through while the truck is escorted away from the tunnel. The closure lasts about 15 to 20 minutes”.
Mr King said that there is no legislation to allow for prosecution of the truck drivers who attempted to enter the tunnel, though gardaí are alerted to the situation.
Tunnel operator Ken O’Callaghan was present when the incidents occurred. “The drivers said they didn’t see the warning signs”, he told the Limerick Post. “The situation was dealt with efficiently but we would ask drivers to be aware of height restrictions to avoid a repeat of this incident”.
Mr. King added that there were a number of teething problems to iron out while the tunnel is in its first weeks of operations.
He said a few cars had been mis-classified as vans and had been charged the incorrect amount, but that vouchers would be sent to motorists concerned.
He said that overall, drivers have been very patient, and asked that they continue to be tolerant.
Ken O’Callaghan at the control tower at Limerick Tunnel
