Contractor starts dismantling Burma Bridge

Once complete, the bridge will be re-laid with girders

ISLAMABAD: With the Burma Bridge on Lehtarar Road in a dilapidated state, the civic body of the federal capital has started a repair and reconstruction process by first dismantling the existing structure on the northern side of the bridge.

In a statement issued by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Sunday, work on fixing the bridge has begun and the process of breaking down a section of the bridge is expected to be completed in the next few days.

In line with instructions of CDA management, the contractor for the bridge has set up a camp office and has deputed heavy machinery and staff at the site to build the bridge.

The contractor has been directed to simultaneously carry out all allied works along with the repair and reconstruction works on the bridge.

Once the existing structure of the bridge has been dismantled, piling work on the bridge will start. While carry out piling works on the bridge, it has been planned that girder casting will start simultaneously.

In the meantime, protection work will be undertaken on the storm drain which runs under the bridge. This will include the construction of a retaining wall.

CDA management has directed the project director to remove the rubble of the dismantled portion so that the site could be cleared as the dismantling process is completed.

It has been further directed to display proper signage and warning boards regarding work in progress to avoid any incident on the under-construction bridge.

The CDA has further directed to coordinate with the Islamabad Traffic Police to ensure a smooth flow of traffic in the vicinity of the bridge. The Project Director has also been told to ensure his presence at the site for effective supervision.

It has been also directed to submit progress reports on the project on a regular basis.

Once completed, the bridge will be 152 metres long and will be 11.5 metres wide. The project will be completed within a year.

Construction of the bridge will help resolve traffic issues and will also end the miseries of the residents residing in the locality and commuters.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 29^th, 2019.