Rules to audit old bridges changed

After the collapse of the Mahad bridge in Konkan due to heavy rains, the Maharashtra government is set to change parameters for the audit of any bridge. It has fixed responsibility on chief engineers for inspection of big bridges and told the officials to use modern techniques like under-water inspection and photo imaging. As per the new norms, the sand mining in the riverbed and pollution due to industries will also be tracked and curbed if necessary. “We have revised a few parameters of inspection of the bridges. But the main decision will come after a brainstorming session scheduled on August 25 at Pune. We have invited experts from IIT, VJTI and discuss on the parameters that can help to make the bridges’ inspection accurate,” Public Works Department minister Chandrakant Patil told The Asian Age.

He further said that certain new techniques would be introduced while changing the parameters. “Traditionally, the plants that grow on the bridge wall are cut, as they weaken the structure. However, we had a presentation that the plant should be removed completely from routes so it does not grow again. This is done with the help of chemicals. We are expecting more suggestions on this line,” Mr Patil said.

In its note, the PWD said that bridges whose life is over or going to get over in the next five years should be inspected on priority. “Special attention should be paid on environmental impact on the bridges due to sand mining in the river bed and industrial waste thrown into it, the note stated. The note has instructed that a vehicle should be used for inspection.

“The base of the bridge should be checked with modern techniques like under-water inspection and photo imaging,” it added.