Borim Bridge in Ponda to Undergo Overnight Closure for Essential Asphalt Repairs
In a significant development for local commuters, the Borim bridge in Ponda will be completely closed to all traffic from 8pm on Sunday until 8am on Monday. This overnight closure has been mandated by the Public Works Department (PWD) to facilitate the application of a new coat of polymer modified bitumen concrete on the bridge surface.
Complete Closure Essential for Uninterrupted Work
The PWD specifically requested this complete traffic shutdown to ensure the asphalting process can proceed without any hindrance or safety concerns. According to Anand Vaghurmekar, assistant engineer of the national highway division of the PWD, the contractor, Sanrachana Structural Strengthening Pvt Ltd from Thane, Maharashtra, has already successfully removed the earlier coat in preparation for this critical phase of the bridge strengthening project.
Ongoing Bridge Strengthening Project
This asphalting work represents just one component of a comprehensive bridge strengthening initiative that has been progressing systematically. Following the completion of the polymer modified bitumen concrete application, the contractor will continue with the remaining work of finger-type joint replacement. Notably, last month saw the successful replacement of half of these essential joints.
"The work of remaining joints' replacement would be done without complete closure," clarified Vaghurmekar, indicating that future joint replacement activities will not require similar full-scale traffic disruptions.
Detailed Scope of Bridge Repairs
The Borim bridge features four expansion joints in total, with only half of the first joint from the Borim side having been replaced to date. This ongoing joint replacement work complements earlier strengthening achievements, including the installation of central hinge bearings that was successfully completed on November 2 last year.
Motorists and commuters are strongly advised to plan their travel accordingly during this overnight closure period and seek alternative routes to avoid inconvenience. The PWD emphasizes that these temporary disruptions are essential for ensuring the long-term structural integrity and safety of this vital transportation link in the region.
