DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippines — The detour bridge at La Libertad town in Negros Oriental is now impassable to vehicles after it destroyed by flashflood last Sunday.
This bridge replaced the Martilo bridge that was toppled down during the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that rocked the province last year.
La Libertad Mayor Lawrence Limkaichong has confirmed that continuous rains during the last two days had softened the base of the bridge structure, which he found to be lacking with the so-called apron, resulting in the erosion of the foundation on its spillway.
The Department of Public Works and Highways' 1st engineering district maintenance engineer Feliciano Espina disclosed modifications of the design will be in place by putting up gabions on the downstream side of the spillway for water to flow freely as well as to clear the vents.
Espina noted that the spillway had clogged due to different types of debris, but he foresaw restoration of the damaged detour bridge will be completed in a week's time if the weather cooperates.
Restoration cost is estimated at P500,000, he added. (FREEMAN)