A dramatic incident unfolded in South Wales when a road sweeping truck was partially swallowed by a sudden sinkhole, prompting the precautionary evacuation of several homes. The event occurred in Porth, within the Rhondda area, as a council worker was carrying out routine street cleaning duties.
Vehicle Plunges Into Ground Behind Terraced Houses
The driver was operating the vehicle behind a row of terraced houses when the ground gave way, causing the truck to fall into the emerging cavity. Witnesses reported that the situation could have been far more severe, with the vehicle potentially disappearing completely underground. However, it was propped up after striking a concrete wall, which prevented a total submersion.
Following the incident, the driver was said to be suffering from shock but remarkably escaped without any physical injuries. A passerby who assisted at the scene commented, "We made sure he was okay, although he was suffering from shock. The area was extremely dangerous as the ground under the road sweeper was already gone, and it was only saved due to hitting a wall."
Precautionary Evacuations and Mine-Related Concerns
In response to the sinkhole, five houses were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Authorities feared that the cause might be linked to historic coal mining activities in the region, a common issue in areas with a rich industrial past like South Wales.
The Mining Remediation Authority has taken the lead in investigating the incident. A spokesperson stated, "At around 2.20pm on Monday, February 2, the Mining Remediation Authority was made aware of a ground collapse in Porth, Rhondda Cynon Taf. Five houses have been evacuated as a precaution. We are working closely with South Wales Police and Rhondda Cynon Taf Borough Council to secure the area and carry out thorough investigations to understand the cause of the incident and any potential risks."
Ongoing Assessments and Community Support
The authority emphasised that if the sinkhole is confirmed to be due to historic coal mining, they will design and deliver a permanent solution as quickly and safely as possible. In the meantime, Aberrhondda Road was temporarily closed as a precaution but has since reopened to traffic.
Rhondda Cynon Taf Council has been supporting the efforts, with a spokesperson noting, "The Mining Remediation Authority have taken lead on this issue as it appears to be related to old mine workings. Their engineers are currently on site assessing the sinkhole, and the council is on hand to support if required." The council also confirmed that the driver is "safe and well" following the alarming event.
Direct communication is being maintained with the residents of the five identified properties who may need to evacuate. The Mining Remediation Authority has urged the public to report any coal mine hazards via their 24/7 hotline at 0800 288 4242, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with former mining sites in the area.
