>> Thang Long Bridge to be repaired for 4th time in 4 months
>> Hanoi’s Thang Long Bridge dangerously damaged again
>> Official: Cracks on bridge a big lesson
>> Investigation into cracks points to execution
>> Thang Long Bridge to get another makeover
The faulty renovation of Thang Long Bridge appears to be the result of negligent implementation by the contractor hired for the job, said the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
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| The faulty repair effort has not yet been fixed |
“If technical requirements were followed strictly, Thang Long Bridge’s surface would not have the problems right after its renovation. The execution of its repairs were the main cause for the cracks,” emphasised Hirotaka Kawano, the expert from JICA.
Hirotaka Kawano revealed the above mentioned information with a DTiNews reporter on September 27.
“Regarding the renovation project of Thang Long Bridge’s surface, I am not a technical expert and did not read the investigation result report on the cause for cracking problems on the bridge’s surface. However, through my experiences, I realised that technical errors which were made in the process of the bridge’s renovation have led to cracks and damage on a large scale of the bridge’s surface after the bridge was put into operation for a short time,” said Kawano.
He added, “Each country needs to develop their own road maintenance system which is suitable for its natural conditions, especially in such a country like Vietnam where the climate conditions are very unique.”
“Road construction is currently a priority in Vietnam. However, it’s necessary to set schedules to repair and maintain the projects. With appropriate maintenance, issues such as those on Thang Long Bridge won’t be a problem,” shared Kawano.
DTiNews reported earlier that nearly VND100 billion ($5,185,650) was spent on the renovation project of Thang Long Bridge in Hanoi. However, after just 3 months, it was seriously damaged.
| JICA has cooperated with Vietnam to build many important road traffic construction projects such as National Road 5 linking Hanoi to Hai Phong City, National Road 18 linking Hanoi to Ha Long City, National Road 3 linking Hanoi to Thai Nguyen City, Can Tho Bridge, and the express way of Ho Chi Minh City – Dau Giay. |
The Ministry of Transport determined the cracks were the result of stone mastic asphalt (SMA) cooling off more quickly than it should have when it was laid combined with the weather.
The bridge’s surface has been damaged for over half a year however, it’s likely that its repair had not been conducted correctly.
According to the Ministry of Transport, the recent repairs are just a temporary solution while they are waiting for the delivery of construction materials. The Ministry said that the repairs must be completed before the opening ceremony of the great celebration of the capital on October 1. However, at present, the bridge’s surface remains heavily damaged.
Speaking on the issue, Nguyen Van Cong, head of the Ministry of Transport\'s office, said, “As of September 26, imported construction materials have been delivered to Vietnam. Heavy raining during the past two days didn’t allow construction to be carried out. Repairs completely depend on weather conditions. Thus, if it doesn’t rain, the repair of the bridge’s surface can be finished on the night of September 30. If weather does not permit, repairs will be conducted after the great celebration.”
