A BT manhole has collapsed on the eastbound carriageway of the B9006 Culloden Road in Inverness.
The damaged cover was discovered just before the junction with the B9177 (Old Perth Road) on the route towards Culloden Moor.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the area if possible.
A full emergency repair is now required to make the road safe, a works vehicle is currently stationed over the damaged section, and temporary traffic lights are being installed to manage flow.
Engineers are preparing for full excavation and replacement of the collapsed BT infrastructure.
The road remains passable, but delays are expected as traffic is filtered through a single lane, Highland Council and BT have not yet provided a timeline for when the repair will be complete.
Drivers heading east out of Inverness towards Culloden are advised to seek alternative routes, Traffic Scotland has issued a notice, and diversion options are being signposted locally.
“This is a busy commuter route and we’re working to ensure repairs are completed safely and swiftly,” said a spokesperson for Highland Council Roads.
“Thank you to road users for their patience while this is dealt with.”
Further updates are expected once repair teams have assessed the full extent of the damage.
