CEO declares structural defects in Banago Bridge I
BACOLOD CITY — City Engineer IV Ephraim Hechanova confirmed recently that the present physical condition of Banago Bridge I located at Puno Banago that connects barangay proper on the north is now in danger.
He recently conducted an actual investigation as instructed by City Engineer Teresita Guadalupe because of the complaints lodged by the residents that said bridge has numerous structural defects.
In the actual observation he conducted, he found out that there are exposed and corroded steel reinforcements on the bridge railings. He also said that the numerous big cracks on the slabs (including the sidewalks) can also be seen on portions wherein asphalt overlays had worn off.
Hechanova also found that the sub-structure of both approaches, shearing cracks and exposed corroded steel reinforcements on cap beams are also visible. After validation of its structural defects, Hechanova recommended that a maximum load limit of five (5) metric tons must be imposed on all traffic passing the bridge for the meantime that the preparation for the eventual reconstruction of the bridge will be undertaken. “Load limitation will not further overburden the structure that may lead to a huge damage that may endanger lives and properties,” Hechanova said.
