Traffic restricted in “Limpopo” – Mozambique

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Traffic restricted in “Limpopo” – Mozambique

12:38 CAT | 27 Jan 2020

Photo: Notícias

Traffic on the National Road Number One (EN1) bridge over the Limpopo River at the entrance to Xai-Xai city has been subject to restrictions since last week because of ongoing work on lanes due be completed by February 28th, Gaza delegate of the National Road Administration (ANE) Jorge Govanhica has said.

As an alternative to blocking the route completely, circulation on the bridge – except at weekends – is reduced one lane only while rehabilitation work is ongoing.

Following rehabilitation of the reinforced concrete deck, the metal plates in the upper part of the bridge are now being replaced.

“We are trying to minimise the amount of time the contractor takes to replace the sheets, and the execution of all necessary activities at the construction site which may restrict circulation. This comprises work on the two towers which support the bridge suspension cables,” Govanhica explained.

The crucial bridge anchoring points are being checked and repaired at the same time.

“This is a delicate operation, which will restrict bridge use for a few hours. That is why we recommended that the contractor reinforce the work teams and equipment, so that the operation is carried out in the shortest time possible and restrictions minimised,” Govanhica adds.

This is the first major intervention on the bridge since it was rebuilt following its collapse in the early 90s, leading at the time to small and medium-sized vehicles crossing the Limpopo by barge, while heavier vehicles were obliged to detour from Chissano via Chibuto, re-joining the EN1 in the Chongoene area.

On average, just over 4,000 vehicles of all classes a day cross the Xai-Xai bridge, which is tolled only in the north-south direction,

Work on the bridge currently involves more than 20 workers, and is budgeted at just over 272 million meticais, provided by the Government of Mozambique.

Source: Notícias