bridge
As repairs to the Mackenzie/Wismar bridge continue, the newly constructed scale which will determine the allowable mass by vehicles to cross the main artery which links the Mackenzie and Wismar shores of the town does not exceed the prescribed limits, is functioning to the expectations.

Linmine engineer, Mr. Emmet Alves

Linmine Engineer, Mr. Emmet Alves, reported that so far the scale is operating successfully and the necessary training period “is going well because we are still in the phase where we are monitoring the operation.”

The construction on the scale began on February 19, 2009, and the instrument was installed in June. Several workers have been trained to operate the modern equipment.

Alves is tasked with overlooking the operations of the scale. Reports are that officials from the ministry felt that it was best to have the scale located on the western side of the bridge, seeing that most heavy laden vehicles come from the interior, including logging trucks and container vehicles.

The Linmine Secretariat will oversee the operations of the scale for two years and the ministry will facilitate the regular maintenance of the equipment, after which the Linmine Secretariat will have full control of its operations.

Since the scale was completed in June last year, and persons were trained in November, it was put on trial in December last year. The response has been positive from vehicle operators who found it less time-consuming and a less tedious operation for the weighing clerks.

Before this, portable scales were used which were also provided by the Ministry of Public Works and Communications.

The permanent scale was implemented by the Ministry of Works and Public Communications to facilitate hassle-free movement of vehicles which carry heavy cargo across the bridge.