The new bridge is the second longest in Africa and form an important link in this vital artery and also strengthen the road network for SADC member countries, functioning as a part of the coastal road extending from Kenya through Tanzania and Mozambique to South Africa.
See a video clip about the bridge
The bridge is split into the Main Bridge (710 m) over the Zambezi Channel and the Approach Bridge (1666 m). The superstructure of both bridges is a partially pre-stressed box-girder, with inclined webs. The Main Bridge will be built using the balanced cantilevers construction scheme.
WSP was appointed as the Engineer for this project and carried out the following services in study phase
* Collect and study existing data and review previous designs and proposals.
* Select preliminary design alternatives and prepare preliminary cost estimates.
* Perform pre-design studies and investigations.
* Perform socio-environmental and bioenvironmental checks and detailed environmental impact assessment study for the bridge.
* Economic impact studies cost-benefit and risk analysis, and economic impact report.
* Do preliminary designs and final technical recommendations and prepare a construction cost estimate.
* Design and specify sections of the works that do not need to be designed by the contractor.
* Inclusion of the removal of the existing road embankment, after commissioning of the bridge.
* Prepare all drawings and documentation required to call for tenders for "design-build".
Phase 2:
* Assist client in calling and evaluating for tenders and assist in negotiating the works contract.
* Set up supervision procedures, including a Quality assurance Plan.
* Monitor the construction of the works. This includes the implementation and control of the environmental monitoring plan.
WSP has also design and will supervise a total of 2.1 km new approach roads.
Project information
Client: Administracao Nacional de Estradas
Size: 2 276 m long bridge
Value: 85 MUSD
Status: Finished (2004 – 2009)