Won Hee-ryong: "Comprehensive Inspection of 55 Soundproof Tunnels...Significant Reinforcement of Safety Measures"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Min-young] Regarding the fire that occurred on the 29th at the soundproof tunnel on the 2nd Gyeongin Expressway, Won Hee-ryong, Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, has decided to conduct a full inspection of the 55 soundproof tunnels managed by the state.

After inspecting the fire site on the morning of the 30th, Minister Won held a "2nd Gyeongin Expressway Soundproof Tunnel Fire Accident Countermeasure Meeting" at the Government Complex Gwacheon and said, "We will conduct a full inspection not only of the 55 soundproof tunnels managed by the state but also those managed by local governments."

Minister Won explained, "In 2016, a specialized research institute had already proposed replacing or excluding acrylic materials due to fire vulnerability, but for some reason, this was not adopted."

He added, "Similar fires had already occurred in 2020 and 2021, although they did not result in casualties, and at the end of last year, the Board of Audit and Inspection raised issues about this. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport also commissioned a professional agency to conduct a study, which has been underway since July."

Minister Won said, "However, looking at the progress from 2016 to this year, I cannot help but criticize the government's negligence in prioritizing safety, postponing action until an accident occurred due to reasons such as cost, lighting, and landscape," expressing deep responsibility on the part of the government.

He stated, "For soundproof tunnel constructions currently underway or not yet started that use fire-vulnerable materials, we will completely halt construction and change the construction methods to use fire-resistant materials and structures."

He also announced, "For soundproof tunnels already built, we will either fully replace them or, if technically impossible, significantly reinforce safety measures such as applying fire-resistant coatings or boards, and installing upper openings to secure sufficient evacuation and rescue time in case of fire."

Construction on soundproof tunnels that are ongoing or planned will be completely stopped to change construction methods, and for existing soundproof tunnels, full replacement will be pursued where possible.

Minister Won said, "Under the principle of safety first, we will thoroughly establish previously insufficient standards and expedite all plans so that they can be applied to fire-risk facilities nationwide. The final plan will be adopted after considering investigations, inspections, and expert opinions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.