Emergency roadworks have caused significant delays for commuters trapped inside a major Sydney tunnel for over three hours, as concerns arose about the potential collapse of concrete roofing onto the roadway.
The westbound section of the M4 Motorway Tunnel, stretching between Haberfield and North Strathfield, was closed this morning to address these urgent infrastructure issues.
Currently, one lane has been reopened for westbound traffic, but drivers are still encouraged to seek alternative routes to avoid congestion.
Motorists are being redirected via Wattle Street, with advisories to steer clear of the M4 tunnel.
“We are doing everything possible to expedite the reopening process and will continue to prioritize this effort,” stated Aitchison.
Drivers heading west can also opt for Parramatta Road, though they should anticipate extended travel times due to the ongoing delays.
“It was very disturbing to me to hear that (motorists) were saying in the tunnel they were just being told that the tunnel was closed,” Aitchison said.
“That is not useful information, I expressed that to Transurban.”
There are also delays on multiple nearby roads.
Transport for NSW coordinator general Howard Collins said “large bulges were noticed in the tunnel roof” and that officials “made the right call” in the closure.
“Their overnight inspection of the tunnel meant that they wished to keep the tunnel closed,” he said.
“We have offered engineers, all sorts of equipment.
“Unfortunately, those offers have not been readily accepted.”
He said he was hoping for a “quicker response” given the seriousness of the issue.
“If there was a major issue with the shotcrete, it could fall on vehicles,” he said.
All citybound lanes of the M4 tunnel are still open.
A closure is also being put in place at Sydney Gateway so motorists from the airport will not be able to access the M8 and M4 tunnels.
Motorists from the airport will still be able to access the M8 tunnel towards the M5.
Motorway crews remain on site, and it is still unknown when the tunnel will reopen.
