The metal bridge over the Revué River, which connects the provincial capital, Chimoio, to the district headquarters of Sussundenga, in Manica province, collapsed on Wednesday morning (4 November), following the passage of a lorry believed to be overloaded.
The Manica Provincial Delegation of the National Roads Administration (DPANEM) had reopened the road to traffic last Thursday, following an interruption of around 15 days due to damage caused to the bridge structure by a lorry that crossed while carrying an excessive load.
According to ANE’s instructions, the passage of light and heavy vehicles was to be restricted to a maximum gross vehicle weight of 30 tonnes. Vehicles exceeding this gross weight were required to use alternative routes, failing which they could face sanctions, including fines and the compulsory transfer of any excess cargo.
Photo: Facebook/Chinhadza Jofrisse
ANE also said that further repair and maintenance work on the bridge would continue, including the tightening of bolts and the restoration of the pedestrian walkway.
However, on Wednesday morning, a lorry carrying a load whose weight has not yet been determined, but which DPANEM technicians believe exceeded 40 tonnes, began crossing the bridge, causing it to collapse. This has made road traffic, and even pedestrian crossings, impossible, already creating social and economic difficulties.
Photo: Livenws48
Given the severity of the damage, it is estimated that several months may be needed to restore the bridge while construction of a permanent structure is awaited.
Photo. Monte Binga TV
Source: Notícias
