Thousands of commuters crossing the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) are expected to be affected for 16 hours over the weekend. Bridge workers are set to design, refabricate and instal two retraction spans.
According to a release from the Administration for the bridge, the DHB is an aged bridge. From time to time, it needs repairs; this time it is to the spans.
The DHB Administration explained that the repairs to the two spans are crucial since the spans form part of the retraction section of the bridges. They need more urgent attention.
The operation will be conducted by contract awarded company INFAB to refabricate and install span 9 and span 10.
Come Saturday, November 13, and Sunday, November 14, the bridge is set to be closed to traffic between 9 PM and 5 AM.
During that time, the DHB has noted that works will be done within that frame time due to the fact that the design and construction of the spans were all done before.
It is now just for the removal of damaged components and installation of the new ones.
When done, the repairs according to DHB, should eliminate the structural deficiencies and further improve the bridge condition, geometrics, safety, and load-carrying capacity.
The Company said it regrets the inconvenience but it’s for the safety of its commuters. It explained that everything will be done to ensure that the bridge opens on time.
DHB has been around for over 40 years and had over time caused major inconvenience to thousands.
The Bridge is said to be the only entrance and exit for some who do not use the boats as a means of transportation.
The Government has since touted a new bridge that is set to be completed in the years to come.
