In a carefully planned operation, the Swiss Federal Roads Office (Astra) successfully detonated a 1,500-ton rock above the Axenstrasse in the canton of Uri.

The explosion, which occurred at 3 PM, was necessary due to the rock's recent movement, posing a safety risk.

The operation went smoothly, with no significant damage to the road or the Axenfluh gallery below.

However, some debris landed in the forest area, requiring manual clearing.

The Axenstrasse, a crucial link between the cantons of Schwyz and Uri, is expected to reopen by October 13 after cleanup operations.

This area is known for its geological instability, necessitating regular monitoring and occasional safety explosions.