WORKS on the 118 -year-old Mahaica Bridge have been completed, according to the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) and as of April 29, the bridge was opened to restricted vehicular traffic.The $33.9M rehabilitation of the landmark bridge, which connects Regions 4 and 5, started in September 2014 but was delayed by unforeseen structural decay, a press release by the ministry noted.
The rehabilitation works included the removal and replacement of damaged steel components, reinforced of concrete deck, new revetments on both ends of the 175-feet- long structure, new galvanized pipe hand rails, placing of restriction barriers with signs, chip clean and paint of the existing girders.
The works were carried out by KB & B Contractors while MPW Engineer Khiraj Bisesar monitored the project.
Vehicles exceeding the maximum height of 9 feet (3.7m) and maximum load of 4 tonnes per axle must use the Bridge along the Mahaica/Rosignol roadway which is approximately 2,500 feet (800m) from the Mahaica Old Bridge.
Signs have been placed along the roadway approaching the bridge in both directions to indicate these restrictions. The ministry is therefore advising drivers to adhere to the restrictions.
Pedestrians, vehicle drivers, commuters and residents expressed their gratitude to the ministry for the project, and promised to report any vehicles trying to violate the implemented restrictions. (Raveena Mangal)