This includes preventative maintenance of the security system, checking that everything works and cleaning the walls, cameras and signage. Due to EU safety regulations and ongoing maintenance contracts, this needs to be done twice a year, as Ralph di Marco, spokesperson for the Ponts et Chaussées, explains. Keeping the tunnels in ship shape also reduces the risk of ad hoc closures to fix problems.
The increase in traffic over recent years is also increasing the need for cleaning, as dust and dirt accumulates more quickly. But cleaning and maintenance are separate operations. Cleaning started on 10 August and will be done by the 23rd, after which maintenance runs until 22 October. Ventilation, lighting and the alert systems will all be checked and repaired or replaced, where necessary.
To reduce impact on traffic, the works are undertaken overnight. Exact dates can be found here:
