Barge Collision Cuts Off Vehicle Access to Delta’s Westham Island
A precautionary boil water advisory has been issued for Westham Island due to a barge collision. This advisory, effective immediately, follows the closure of the Westham Island Bridge, which was struck by a barge earlier this week.
Barge Collision Details
The incident occurred on Tuesday, resulting in significant damage to the bridge. As authorities conducted an assessment, they discovered a watermain leak beneath the Fraser River, prompting the advisory. No confirmed contamination in the water supply has been reported, but residents are advised to take precautions.
Precautionary Measures for Residents
Residents are urged to use boiled or bottled water for various activities. These include:
- Drinking
- Cooking
- Making ice
- Brushing teeth
- Washing ready-to-eat foods
- Washing dishes
- Preparing infant formula
Bottled water will be delivered to residents at the foot of the bridge by 8 p.m. tonight.
Impact on Westham Island Access
The vehicle access to Westham Island has been severely affected. Approximately 200 residents are now reliant on foot traffic to enter or leave the community. TransLink has not provided an estimated reopening time for the bridge.
Response and Repairs
TransLink’s initial plans for quick repairs have been revised. A structural engineer’s assessment has indicated that repairs will take longer than expected. TransLink spokesperson Thor Diakow noted that crews are currently evaluating the damage.
Community and Emergency Responses
Delta Mayor George Harvie is working to address the transportation issues for goods and emergency services. With Westham Island primarily consisting of farmland, ensuring the delivery of produce is critical. The mayor emphasized the need for an emergency vehicle to be stationed on the island for rapid response.
The cause of the barge collision remains under investigation, as the Westham Island Bridge is one of British Columbia’s oldest, with a history spanning over 110 years.
