Access to the Maputo-KaTembe bridge viaduct, which connects to Avenida da Organização das Nações Unidas (UN) in Maputo city, has been temporarily closed to allow repair work to be carried out. The decision was taken after cracks were identified that jeopardise the safety of users and the stability of the structure, according to the newspaper Noticias.
According to the bridge’s concessionaire, Rede Viária de Moçambique (REVIMO), the viaduct’s closure was due to a landslide caused by work carried out by a private company nearby, which led to the partial collapse of one of the support pillars. ‘The problem has already been identified and action to correct it is underway,’ said a REVIMO source quoted by the daily.
Although the main bridge remains operational, access to the viaduct has been interrupted as a precautionary measure, and traffic has been redirected to other alternative routes. The source explained that the interdiction was necessary to avoid additional risks to users while stabilisation work is carried out on the affected structure.
According to REVIMO, the repair work is expected to take around three months, during which time the viaduct will remain closed to traffic. During this time, the concessionaire guarantees that work will be carried out to reinforce the affected pillars and correct the cracks identified, so that the safety of all users is guaranteed.
The ban is duly signposted, with fences and indications of ongoing works. REVIMO appeals for motorists’ understanding and co-operation in complying with traffic regulations during the works.
This temporary closure of access to the Maputo-KaTembe bridge is a preventive measure to ensure the integrity of the structure and the safety of all those travelling on it.
