The exercise forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the assessment, monitoring, and maintenance of Zambia’s bridge infrastructure. Data collected during the exercise will contribute to the development of a Deflection-Based Deterioration Assessment Guideline for Non-Composite Steel Plate Girder Bridges.
The guideline is intended to support more objective and data-driven assessments of bridge conditions and inform appropriate and timely maintenance interventions.
The initiative is aimed at preserving connectivity at all times and supporting the 10-10-5-3-3-1-1-1 Grow Zambia Agenda.
During the exercise, a loaded tipper truck was weighed before testing commenced and then driven through five designated truck positions, with one test run conducted at each position. Bridge deflections at each position were measured and recorded using a specialised measurement device.
The RDA wishes to assure the public that Chongwe Bridge is in good condition. The Agency conducts regular bridge inspections and continues to strengthen data-driven bridge maintenance practices to support the safe, efficient, and sustainable management of Zambia’s bridge network.