The collapse of two connecting posts along the high span of the Demerara Harbour Bridge yesterday afternoon resulted in severe traffic congestion on both sides of the structure.
According to reports received, the connecting post between spans 31-32 broke just around 3:15 pm, putting the structural integrity of the bridge at risk.
As a result, a decision to close the bridge was made in order to facilitate emergency repairs. The closure, which lasted for almost two hours caused a severe traffic build up since it came during the afternoon rush hour period.
Stabroek News understands that the emergency work carried out yesterday afternoon was a “standard fix” and that inspections and changing of the connecting posts are usually done during the retraction periods, however due to the urgency of yesterday’s situation, the bridge had to be closed, much to the inconvenience of many.
It was further noted that advisories were sent out as part of attempts to keep the travelling public informed. Nevertheless, the Demerara Harbour Bridge in a Facebook post extended regrets for the inconvenience caused as a result of the incident.
On the evening of September 18, thousands of commuters on both sides of the Harbour Bridge were left stranded for around two hours after two trucks broke down on the bridge.
The majority of the commuters were on their way home while others were making their way to work when they were caught in the traffic jam.
