Two accidents linked to repair work on a drainage pipe at the Angers pumping station have caused flooding in recent days. On November 23 and 24, the City of Gatineau had to intervene due to a malfunction. In both cases, the Ministry of Environment was informed of the situation.
A temporary 2.3 km pipeline was installed for the duration of the work from September to January.
First, on November 23, a pressure pipe to be repaired along Montreal Road leaked. The duration of the leak was 24 minutes, and the contents of the pipe, and thus the wastewater, went into a nearby ditch heading towards the Ottawa River.
The next day, November 24, another accident occurred, this time at the intersection of Montreal Road and Balbuzzard Road. There was even an overflow that lasted for 8 hours.
The water in wastewater overflow tends to be very low in oxygen. […] They contain large amounts of pathogens, viruses and bacteria.
– Philippe Maisonneuve, public policy and water quality advisor at the Rivers Foundation
The sector’s municipal advisor, Mario Obi, defends the city’s intervention. It is noteworthy that the city quickly informed the Ministry of Environment as soon as the private contractor was alerted.
Mr. Obi points out the possibility of abuses. He insists on the importance of working to prevent floods.
When we put in the work, it can happen […] Let’s call it an accident or incident. Let’s hope there aren’t others, but we’re not immune either. At least the good thing I have to tell you is that it was quickly corrected and we should prevent the presence of others.
– Mario Obi, municipal councilor of the Masson-Angers district
The city states it held a meeting Monday with the contractor to avoid further leaks and flooding. We add that careful monitoring continues with the contractor.
