The challenges of humanitarian access bridges in Democratic Republic of Congo

Supply to internally displaced persons in north-east Democratic Republic of Congo is difficult because of poor roads and the lack of bridges and culverts. Funds became available for construction of 22 short bridges and 28 culverts and repair of three Bailey bridges. The situation presented challenges of insecurity, poor access and communications, limited capacity of the highway authorities, strictly limited funds, poor site information and uncertain quality of materials, supervision and workmanship. This paper records how the project team formulated a project to improve access, identified and overcame the challenges and brought the project to a successful conclusion. It contains a brief review of guidance relating to low-cost bridges, information on the designs chosen and resources used, allowances made for the conditions and lessons learnt to assist engineers working in similar circumstances. The first year's project was successfully completed on time and in budget to the benefit of the local population.