Overnight hotel stays at the Grand Canyon are halted due to a failed water pipeline.
The National Park Service reports that Transcanonyon Waterline experienced four "major" breaks.
The pipeline that supplies water to Grand Canyon National Park has suffered four significant breaks, resulting in a total shutdown. As a result, overnight hotel stays in the park have been restricted ahead of the busy Labor Day travel weekend.
The Transcanyon Waterline, a 12½ mile-long pipe that supplies water from the canyon for use in the park, has experienced mishaps, resulting in no water being pumped to either the South or North Rim of the National Park Service.
The NPS has announced that all park concessions will stop overnight accommodations starting Thursday, including hotel facilities operated by Xanterra and Delaware North. Only dry camping will be allowed, and fire restrictions are in place. However, the park will remain open for day use.
"The NPS stated that the measures are essential for maintaining the safety and sustainability of water resources. The objective is to restore full operational status for overnight guests on the South Rim as soon as possible."
The Transcanyon Pipeline, constructed in the 1960s, has surpassed its predicted lifespan and undergoes frequent breakdowns, necessitating costly and ongoing repairs to mend leaks.
Over 85 major water delivery disruptions have occurred since 2010, and the National Park Service is currently undertaking a $208 million rehabilitation of the Transcanyon Waterline and upgrades to the associated water delivery system, as stated by the NPS.
The park's water supply needs will be met by a crucial investment in infrastructure, which is expected to be completed by 2027, according to the statement.
During the Labor Day holiday, water restrictions will continue when hotels are fully or nearly occupied, according to the Associated Press.
The restoration of the damaged pipe in the narrow "box" section of the canyon is complicated due to the susceptibility of this area to rock fall and the high temperatures during this time of year. A photo released by park officials shows a funnel of water spewing from the pipe and across the narrow canyon.
Joelle Baird, Grand Canyon spokesperson, stated that it is a challenging location to have a pipeline break, and safety is a concern for the repair crews.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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