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How this sinkhole created a traffic nightmare for Aussies

A sinkhole caused by a collapsed mineshaft has created massive headaches in the Victorian alpine region.

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A major tourist road has been closed in Victoria’s alps after a sinkhole opened up, creating chaos for commuters.

The Great Alpine Road has been closed in both directions between Harrietville to Hotham Heights after the sinkhole opened up on Saturday morning, the SES said.

The Department of Transport and Planning is surveying the area and will in the coming days commence fixing the damage.

It is believed it was caused by a collapsed disused mineshaft that runs underneath the road.

The sinkhole was caused by the collapse of a disused mine shaft. Picture: Supplied/Department of Transport.
The sinkhole was caused by the collapse of a disused mine shaft. Picture: Supplied/Department of Transport.
The location of the landslide on the Great Alpine Road. Picture: Supplied/Vic Emergency.
The location of the landslide on the Great Alpine Road. Picture: Supplied/Vic Emergency.

Hotham Heights and Harrietville remain open for business.

However the public has been told to find an alternative route between the two towns.

Ordinarily, it would take about 50 minutes to make the 32km journey from Harrietville to Hotham.

However, because of the diversions, it would take approximately three and a half hours to drive around the Alpine National Park.

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Original URL: https://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/news/how-this-sinkhole-created-a-traffic-nightmare-for-aussies/news-story/1408195f655e1cbfc8a6bb07cd82bb21