WORK AT MANGAHAO.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2287, 9 June 1921, Page 3

WORK AT MANGAHAO.

GOOD PROGRESS BEING MADE

The rumour that work on the Mangahao hydro-electric undertaking was slowing, down, and that the completion of the scheme would bo delayed in consequence, is denied.

It is stated that there is more activity at the present time than has ever been the case, and though to the layman the work still to be done appears stupendous, it must be admitted that the work accomplished bulks just as largely. Mr Dinnie, the engineer in charge, states that the w’orks are all fully staffed, 280 men being employed at the present time. The two tunnels are each being pushed on from either end, and as soon as sure foundations are secured the tw r o dams will be commenced. Three steam-power plants are running practically continuohsly to supply poAver for the compressed air drills and other work. Mr Dinnie stated definitely that, providing no unseen difficulties, financial or otherwise, arise, he expected t*he work to be completed within three years from the present time. Work on the transmission lines will proceed simultaneously with that of the generating plant.

tT is probable that a Aveediug-out process in regard to unsatisfactory labour has been lire cause of. the rumours in question. The men, and more especially the expert tunnellers from Waihi, appear to be exceedingly capable, and are cheerful and satisfied with their lot, which has been and is being immensely improved. UpAvards of £200,000 has been employed in housing employees.