TAIERI FLOOD DANGER

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26470, 26 May 1947, Page 9

TAIERI FLOOD DANGER

Sir, —After reading the report of the public meeting held at Momona to discuss the retention of the traffic bridge at Otokia, the writer is of the opinion that some of the reasons for the keeping of the bridge can hardly be substantiated. The first reason given in the resolution passed is the most logical. A safe- outlet for stock and settlers in time of flood is of paramount importance and cannot be argued against. However, as all local residents are aware, at present it takes only a very small flood in the Taieri River completely to block the Otokia outlet. In the event of a major flood, such as the 1923 disasters, the writer is of the opinion that only a small percentage of stock could be shifted through Otokia. even if an outlet above flood level were provided. Now, it would appear that major floods are the main reason for a new bridge. But why spend huge sums of money to raise roads and build a bridge? Would it not be better to spend this money to stop a major flood? Tlie writer is led to believe that portion of the main river bank from Outram township to the railway bridge has caused the settlers in thjat vicinity much uneasiness during high rivers in recent years. One has only to remember the 1923 break in this area to visualise what would happen to-day. The whole plain down to the Taieri Ferry would be a lake in a few hours, and only those farmers adjacent to the Otokia outlet would be able to take advantage of it.

Since floods are the basis of the argument, what about the East Taieri side? Quantities of milk have been produced in Dast years in this locality. As one who has experienced disastrous Taieri floods, and the havoc and misery that they cause, the writer would prefer to do without a bridge if major floods could be averted. Mr Semple has said that the reason for Hooding (and opinion generally agrees with him) in most New Zealand rivers is the silting up of the beds of said rivers. Until the bed of the Taieri River is cleaned out from the sea to the West Taieri bridge major floods will always be a menace. All efforts should be. made to see that this is brought about before bridges are built and roads and railways raised above flood level, at heavy cost to the community. If the Taieri River is allowed to slit up to the same extent during the next 50 years as it has done during the last 50 years, boats, not bridges, will be necessary on the Taieri Plain. All the next three reasons are easily answered. It is agreed that an all-wealne-route from the Taieri is necessary. Such would be provided if another span were built on the West Taieri bridge. In the event of -a flood in what is called the “outer area,” such a bridge would allow the supply of all meat, milk, vegetables, etc., to the city at all times. If a major flood occurred, then the meat, milk, etc., would be practically nil for many month;. —I am, etc.. May 22. First Things Come First