Infrastructure & Engineering
Engineer Refutes Design Flaw Claims in Isabela Bridge Collapse, Cites Overloading as Likely Cause
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The engineer responsible for the Cabagan-Santa Maria Bridge in Isabela has dismissed allegations of a design flaw causing its recent collapse, emphasizing that the structure complied with the Philippines’ Bridge Code. Engineer Alberto Cañete, a key author of the 1997 and 2015 editions of the code, clarified in a 24 Oras Weekend report by Nico Waje that the collapse occurred on the bridge’s tenth arch after a dump truck had already traversed nine arches safely.
“If the design were flawed, the bridge would have failed at the first arch,” Cañete stated. “The issue may lie in construction or installation, as the collapse originated at a connection point.”
Cañete explained that the bridge was initially designed under the 1997 code but underwent retrofitting during its 2014–2015 construction phase to align with updated standards. These revisions increased force requirements, prompting upgrades to the first eight arches. He further stressed that the bridge was built to withstand loads exceeding the national 45,000-ton limit.
Highlighting the truck’s role, Cañete noted the vehicle weighed 102 tons—far surpassing the 13.5-ton axle load limit. He argued that such a load typically requires an 18-wheeler, not the 10-wheeler involved, suggesting severe overloading contributed to the failure.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which previously affirmed the bridge’s compliance with standards, has been contacted by GMA Integrated News for further comment.
While investigations continue, preliminary findings indicate overloading as the primary factor in the collapse. Authorities await final reports to determine accountability and prevent future incidents.
Note: This AI-generated summary may contain inaccuracies. For complete context, refer to the full article.
“If the design were flawed, the bridge would have failed at the first arch,” Cañete stated. “The issue may lie in construction or installation, as the collapse originated at a connection point.”
Cañete explained that the bridge was initially designed under the 1997 code but underwent retrofitting during its 2014–2015 construction phase to align with updated standards. These revisions increased force requirements, prompting upgrades to the first eight arches. He further stressed that the bridge was built to withstand loads exceeding the national 45,000-ton limit.
Highlighting the truck’s role, Cañete noted the vehicle weighed 102 tons—far surpassing the 13.5-ton axle load limit. He argued that such a load typically requires an 18-wheeler, not the 10-wheeler involved, suggesting severe overloading contributed to the failure.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which previously affirmed the bridge’s compliance with standards, has been contacted by GMA Integrated News for further comment.
While investigations continue, preliminary findings indicate overloading as the primary factor in the collapse. Authorities await final reports to determine accountability and prevent future incidents.
Note: This AI-generated summary may contain inaccuracies. For complete context, refer to the full article.