Table of Contents
- Major Incident Declared
- Emergency Services Response
- Details of the Sinkhole
- Rescue Efforts
- Public Safety Measures
A significant incident has been declared following the emergence of a large sinkhole beneath a canal.
Emergency services were dispatched to the scene in the Chemistry area of Whitchurch, Shropshire, during the early hours of the morning.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuriesCredit: X
The extensive hole measures an astonishing 50 meters by 50 meters and formed beneath the canal.
The occupants of three narrowboats on the water at that time had to be rescued by firefighters who responded to the situation.
A significant portion of the canal has been entirely drained of water following the incident.
A “multi-agency” response has been initiated, and thankfully, no injuries have been reported.
A spokesperson for West Mercia Police stated: “A major incident has been declared in Shropshire after reports of a sinkhole affecting a canal in the Chemistry area of Whitchurch.
“Emergency services are currently on-site, and a multi-agency response has been organized, coordinated through the Shropshire Tactical Co-ordination Group (TCG).
“There are no reports of casualties at this time, and residents are receiving assistance from the fire service.
“We advise the public to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Further updates will be provided as they become available.”
The Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service reported receiving notifications of a canal bank collapse, with significant amounts of water escaping into the surrounding land.
Fire crews from Whitchurch, Prees, Shrewsbury, Newport, Albrighton, and Telford responded to the scene.
Residents of nearby boats are being relocated from their floating homes and are being supported by emergency services.
A fire service spokesperson commented: “Firefighters have been operating under challenging conditions due to unstable ground and rapidly moving water. Crews promptly established safety sectors both upstream and downstream and began managing water flow using barge boards and water gate systems.
“We are collaborating with our partners on-site, including West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service (including HART), the Canal & River Trust, the Environment Agency, local authority emergency planning officers, and National Resilience.”
The occupants of three narrowboats had to be rescued by firefightersCredit: UKNIP
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the sinkhole in Whitchurch?
The exact cause of the sinkhole is still under investigation, but it has been reported that a canal bank collapse contributed to the situation.
Were there any injuries reported?
Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries related to the sinkhole incident.
What actions are being taken to ensure public safety?
Emergency services have set up a multi-agency response and are advising the public to avoid the area and seek alternative routes while they manage the situation.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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