Highway construction continues despite suspected contamination

The Transport Ministry stated on Tuesday in response to queries that it does not have the right to halt construction work on the D4/R7 motorway bypass in Bratislava. Transport Minister Árpád Érsek (Most-Hid) confirmed last week that the police are taking action regarding suspicions that contaminated soil or construction waste is being used at D4 and R7 sites. He added that samples of the soil had been taken and that the ministry must wait three weeks for the results before any action can be taken. If the use of unacceptable materials is confirmed, the contractor will have to remedy the situation at its own expense, according to the ministry. The project's general contractor, Zero Bypass Limited, and the main construction contractor, D4R7 Construction, have denied using any contaminated materials and say they are cooperating fully with the police.