After seven hours of intensive work, the China Railway Seventh Group, CRSG has on 16 November 2017, successfully lifted and laid the first slab beams across the Orugu Bridge along the Wellington/Maisiaka highway. The Orugu Bridge which serves as an essential transportation hub to Freetown, started in November 1, 2016 and is expected to be opened by the end of January, 2018.
The exercise, which was witnessed by senior and junior staff of CRSG, the Sierra Leone Roads Authority, a large number of Jui residents and commuters, serves as a prelude to the construction of the upper structure of the bridge and marks the countdown to the opening of traffic leading to the bridge.
Coordinator of CRSG, a Chinese National, Mr. Shaw, described the bridge as an important part of the Wellington/Masiaka highway project. He said the total length of the bridge is 149.34 metres and 10.5 metres wide. Mr. Shaw assured that after the bridge is complete, the new bridge will improve road safety, efficiency, reduce traffic jams, and beautify the scenery leading to Freetown.
During the designing and construction process, he said, they worked in close collaboration with the Sierra Leone Roads Authority and other departments, pointing out that the work was fully carried out in accordance with the permitted construction technical specifications and construction technology with regard for a safe and sound ecological environment.
In compliance with the company’s safety rules, Mr. Shaw averred his company has put in place emergency plans to ensure the lifting process is done safely and smoothly and that all workers and operators on the site are supplied with protective equipment.
Monday November 27, 2017.
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