Lokeren(The Brussels Morning Newspaper):A sinkhole on Lindestraat surprised residents revealing a large empty space beneath. Local concerns grow over ongoing road issues with repairs planned but not starting until after the next election.
People on Lindestraat street were really surprised on Friday when a section of the road suddenly caved in making a big hole. Even though the hole looked small on the surface about a meter wide it actually showed a much bigger empty space under the road. This gap was deep and wide big enough to hold a small car as mentioned by local resident Andy Nimmegeers.It has been said that the road sinking down all of a sudden has made people worried because it shows there might be big problems with how the road was built. The officials will probably check everything carefully to find out why it happened and to fix it properly. This is important to avoid more accidents and keep everyone safe while using the road.
What are the ongoing road issues on Lindestraat and their impact?
Andy Nimmegeers who lives close to the hole on Lindestraat said that the road has been in bad shape for a long time. He mentioned that the collapse didn’t surprise him because the street has had problems for a while. Andy explained that Lindestraat has been sinking with holes and low areas popping up in different places for at least the last five years. Andy mentioned that they haven’t really fixed the main problems causing the road issues. This lack of proper repairs probably played a part in the recent collapse. He said that they really need to take serious steps to fix the ongoing road problems once and for all.
What are the causes and solutions for the Lindestraat sinkhole?
 Andy told the city council about the sinkhole on Friday. A city contractor came and covered it with sheets. Andy mentioned that the repair might take five weeks and he suggested closing the street to traffic during this time. He noticed that buses and heavy vehicles were still using the street which could affect its stability. The cause of the sinkhole is uncertain but it could be related to issues with the sewer system according to Alderman Sabine Van Rysselberghe
Andy has been complaining about the road issues on Lindestraat for a while. Alderman Van Rysselberghe mentioned that a big repair for Lindestraat is coming soon. The road and sidewalks are not in good shape and need to be improved. The plan is to do a complete renovation that includes fixing the sewer system but this won’t happen until after the next term in office. The exact date for the renovation is still unknown. Andy is worried that more incidents like the sinkhole might happen before the renovation takes place.
