Road crews have worked around the clock to reopen 180 kilometres of the Pacific Highway.
Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Sam Farraway said Transport for NSW have been able to get crews on the ground assessing, clearing and carrying out immediate repairs to see large sections of the road reopened.
“Our focus is prioritising safety for all road users, while our crews assess the damage and re-open the roads and rail lines that will keep essential goods moving,” Mr Faraway said.
“We have been able open an alternative route between Sydney and Brisbane for heavy vehicles via an inland route leaving the M1 at Grafton via Casino, Lismore and rejoining the M1 just to the north of Ballina.
“We continue to work closely with our freight partners to get freight routes opened and supplies to communities as major flooding continues to affect the State.
“Where it is safe to do so we are escorting heavy vehicles through closed roads to ensure they can reach communities in need of food and emergency supplies.”
Mr Faraway said drivers need to continue to take extra care when travelling in these conditions and on unfamiliar routes.
“Please plan ahead and follow traffic conditions. We have traffic control and emergency crews out on the roads directing traffic so please be extra vigilant near all work crews.”
A 60 kilometre section of the road remains closed at Ballina, Maclean and New Italy.
Check LiveTraffic.com for real time updates and more information on the status of affected roads can be found here.
