Dam Safety

The CPW Dam Safety Assurance Report (30/5/2006) has highlighted the probability and effect of a Sudden Dam Failure.

5000 people will constantly be living at risk of Dam Failure between Coalgate and Lake Ellesmere.
Under the scenario: Earthquake Induced Immediate Failure During the Night
a predicted 201 people could die.
Figures of expected 'Loss of Life' are included on the map below.

Damage to houses and structures in this area will be substantial.
The dark blue area shown below is water 3m deep, moving at 5m/s.
The light blue area is water 1m deep moving at 2m/s.

CPW concludes the risk is acceptable.           The MHPS feels that this is not acceptable.

This picture below shows 3 of the 4 fault lines in the reservoir area that could cause a Dam Failure.
Even though CPW don't know where any of them start or finish, they don't think they will be a problem.

This information can be viewed in The CPW Dam Safety Assurance Report (30/5/2006). Copies are available to the public from CPW or The Selwyn District Council.