Reconstructing vital infrastructure

Essentially a major refurbishment project, BESIX deconstructed an old bridge over the Sanaga River and rebuilt a new two-lane vehicle structure to bring it up to current standards. The bridge is a crucial part of Cameroon’s economy, improving access to the Mbam and Kim regions.

Sustainable outcomes

Smart engineering and construction methodologies were applied to ensure the previous bridge’s footings could safely be reused. This started with a thorough inspection and analysis of the existing foundations including collecting core samples as well as magnetic and seismic investigation of the interfaces between the piles and existing abutments. Any undermining of the foundation was filled to reinforce the footings. The existing bridge was then dismantled, and the abutments and pillars rehabilitated.

Adaptability

Harnessing the ebb and flow of the river, the pilings were constructed when water levels were low. The existing structure was also used as a work platform throughout construction minimising the need for waterborne craft. The 550-tonne metal structure including 34 main bearing girders was assembled on the riverbank and hoisted onto its final supports in one piece.