THE rehabilitation works for the 20-year-old Mainit Bridge along Palo-Carigara-Ormoc Road, in Alangalang, Leyte has been completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

In his report to DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson, DPWH Region 8 Director Rolando M. Asis said that the P15 million rehabilitation and strengthening of the three spans or 77.10 lineal meters composite I-beam of Mainit Bridge was already completed.

The rehabilitation project undertaken by ACME Builders Corporation will ensure safe and convenient travel for road users.

Prior to the repair works, corrosion on the steel members of the bridge were noted including missing of some bolts, and severe corrosion of bottom chord of the steel beam particularly at the left portion of pier 1.

Further structural analysis at the then old bridge has revealed breaking up of some of the welded portion of the steel members causing a portion of the left lane of bridge deck to settle by approximately six inches and scouring at the riverbed.

Funding for the immediate rehabilitation were taken from the FY 2010 General Appropriations Act specifically under the funds for the rehabilitation/replacement of damaged bridges along national roads.