Heated Cables on Slippery Roads... This is Yongsan's 'Flex'

6 Steep Slope Sections Vulnerable to Snow Removal, Totaling 1,740m

The appearance after the installation of heating wires on Hoenamu-ro, Yongsan-gu. (Photo by Yongsan-gu)

Yongsan-gu, Seoul (Mayor Park Hee-young) will install additional road heating cables on six steep slopes in the area as part of its winter snow removal measures. Although costly, this method is considered the best way to ensure safety on steep roads during winter.

The road heating system involves embedding carbon fiber heating cables beneath the road pavement, which automatically activate during heavy snowfall to melt snow directly and prevent ice formation. According to Yongsan-gu, this system is environmentally friendly by reducing the use of calcium chloride, and allows for real-time monitoring and remote control, enabling quick and efficient responses.

The six sections to be additionally equipped this year total 1,740 meters in length. Yongsan-gu will begin installation work this month on the Sinheung-ro section (Sinheung-ro 93?126) spanning 370 meters and the Hyochangwon-ro 86ga-gil section (Hyochangwon-ro 86ga-gil 26?33) spanning 120 meters. Last month, a new technology and patented construction method review committee was held for the Sinheung-ro 2nd section (Sinheung-ro 56?87) spanning 330 meters, Hyochangwon-ro section (Hyochangwon-ro 220?228) spanning 150 meters, Jangmun-ro section (Seobinggo-ro 417?Jangmun-ro 141) spanning 100 meters, and Dokseodang-ro section (Dokseodang-ro 101?103) spanning 90 meters, with plans to complete installation within the year.

Yongsan-gu stated, “These sections are narrow steep roads with village bus routes and heavy traffic, making snow removal difficult during heavy snowfall. Installing road heating cables will alleviate traffic inconveniences caused by heavy snow and habitual ice formation on these steep slopes and prevent safety accidents.” Last year, Yongsan-gu installed heating cables on three steep slopes including Daesagwan-ro, Sowol-ro 20-gil, and Hoenamu-ro, receiving strong positive feedback from residents.

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