Bridging troubled waters: a new link to Kuchch

This article describes the design and construction of a new bridge in the state of Gujurat, India, and the effect of a serious earthquake in 2001 on both the new and old bridges. The new bridge structure consists of well foundations, twin piers, elastomeric bearings, precast pre-tensioned girders with a cantilever, and in-situ deck slab. The precast girders were erected using a bed gantry and SICET launching equipment. A well tilted is sinking in spite of preventive measures and it was decided to add extra piles and enlarge the well cap. Earthquake damage during building affected girder edges, bearings, and the neoprene seals of the expansion joints: the concrete seismic upstands on either side of the superstructure were badly damaged but successfully prevented spans from dislodging. Repair work consisted of lifting the spans back into position and replacing the bearings. The old bridge suffered similar damage but was reopened after strengthening work until the new bridge was completed.