Thermal fluctuations trigger major water pipe failure and road subsidence in Chisinau
Sharp temperature fluctuations continue to damage the capital's aging infrastructure. On Wednesday, February 18, a major water main burst on Gradina Botanica Street, causing severe localized flooding and disrupting traffic.
Drivers in the area captured footage of the incident, which showed water covering large sections of the roadway. Simultaneously, a significant road subsidence occurred on the intersecting Padurii Street, creating a hazardous sinkhole for motorists.
The municipal water utility, Apa-Canal Chisinau, attributed the incident to a failure in the aqueduct network caused by thermal cycling. Technical crews were deployed immediately with heavy machinery to isolate the leak and begin emergency repairs.
To facilitate safe operations, water services were temporarily suspended for several surrounding streets. Utility officials confirmed that the freezing temperatures weakened the asphalt layers, leading to the sudden collapse of the road surface.
Repair works are currently ongoing to restore both water supply and road integrity. Residents are advised to avoid the Botanica district perimeter until the infrastructure is fully stabilized.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
