Traffic restored after rain-induced landslide causes restrictions on Rikoti Pass, western Sachkhere municipality

Traffic through the Rikoti Pass crossing between the eastern and western parts of Georgia has been restored following restrictions placed in sections of the area after it was hit by a landslide caused by rain between Wednesday and Thursday, the Roads Department said. 

Heavy overnight rains affected the Pass, a major crossing point, as well as the municipality of Sachkhere in the western Imereti region.

Photo: Roads Department

The Department said the landslide that developed early in the morning had led to traffic restrictions in several areas on the kilometre 169 section of the Tbilisi-Senaki-Leselidze Highway, before the affected locations were cleared in “intensive” works. 

Wednesday’s adverse weather also affected the Sachkhere municipality, flooding the central part of the city of Sachkhere, entrance floors of residential houses and commercial spaces.

Heavy rain also caused problems in several villages of the municipality, damaging roads and agricultural areas. 

Sachkhere Mayor said the local administration may seek assistance from the central Government due to the extent of the damage.