Rebuilding the Roya Valley with Machine Control

Author: Reka Vasszi

Five years ago, the Roya Valley in southeastern France faced a catastrophe of immense proportions. Severe flooding and landslides devastated the region, leaving roads destroyed, homes swept away, and communities isolated. The challenge of rebuilding was not just about restoring infrastructure; it was about creating a sustainable and resilient future for the valley and its residents. Central to this effort, among many, was Alan Baer and his team, equipped with the Leica iCON site excavator solution from Leica Geosystems, part of Hexagon.

Rebuilding embankments with machine control

The reconstruction of the Roya Valley, which started in 2020, was ambitious and required precision, efficiency, and adaptability. The project involved stabilising steep slopes, rebuilding embankments, and reshaping riverbeds to mitigate the risk of future flooding. The municipality’s vision was clear: to rebuild the valley in a way that prioritised resilience, safety, and environmental sustainability. To achieve this, advanced machine control technology became indispensable.

The Leica iCON site excavator proved to be a transformative tool in the process. By enabling millimetre-level accuracy, the system allowed operators to execute complex earthmoving tasks with unparalleled precision and safety. Alan Baer, a machine operator at Groupe Renaudi, noted how the technology fundamentally changed the way he works."With Leica Geosystems’ machine control solution, we’re able to achieve precision that simply wasn’t possible before. It eliminates guesswork and reduces the need for rework, saving both time and resources."

Doing it smarter and safer

One of the most significant advantages of the Leica iCON site excavator system was its ability to support deep excavations safely and efficiently. Working in waterlogged terrain and areas prone to landslides required careful planning and execution. The technology provided real-time data, ensuring that operators could make informed decisions without compromising safety."It’s an essential tool for maintaining safety on-site because it consolidates multiple functions—measuring, as-built verification, and machine control—into one seamless system. This means I can carry out measurements and adjustments directly from the cab, reducing the need for ground personnel to be in potentially hazardous areas.”

By minimising human exposure to risks such as unstable terrain, waterlogged conditions, or ongoing excavation zones, the system enhances overall site safety while maintaining efficiency and accuracy. It’s not just about doing the job faster; it’s about doing it smarter and safer.

Measure points on the fly

Another key feature that proved invaluable during the project was the ability to create and measure points on the fly. "The system gives us the ability to respond dynamically to changes directly from the cab," Alan said.

One practical example of this functionality was its use in installing geotextiles. Geotextiles are essential for stabilising soil and preventing erosion, especially in areas prone to landslides and flooding. With the Leica iCON site excavator system, Alan could precisely measure and mark the areas where geotextiles needed to be placed, ensuring optimal coverage and effectiveness.

"This measuring functionality eliminates the need for site personnel to physically climb up slippery, waterlogged, and muddy slopes to measure the size and placement of the geotextile,” Alan said. Thereby, we also significantly reduce the risk of accidents or injuries, keeping the team safe and avoiding any potential casualties."

Support that keeps your back

Another standout aspect of the project was the support provided by Leica Geosystems. The team received prompt assistance whenever technical issues arose, ensuring minimal disruption to operations. "The support is incredibly responsive—issues are often resolved within ten minutes, and if not immediately, I can expect a call back within half an hour," Alan remarked. "This reliability is vital on projects like this, ensuring the machines keep running and work stays on track."

Reconstruction and resilience

The successful reconstruction of the Roya Valley has been met with immense gratitude from the local community. The restored infrastructure and enhanced flood resilience have brought renewed hope and security to the region. "This project is about more than just rebuilding roads and embankments," Daniel Giordan, 2nd Deputy Delegate: Works, Living Environment, and Safety at the municipality of Breil-sur-Roya, reflected. "It’s about creating a sustainable future for the valley and its people to avoid a future catastrophe."

Alan Baer and his team, alongside the innovative technology from Leica Geosystems, have enormously contributed to the reconstruction of the valley in recent years. The Roya Valley now stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, technology, and determination in the face of adversity.

Learn more about Leica iCON site excavator and how this solution can elevate your jobsite!