Piggatan Bridge in Cagayan collapses, presumably as a consequence of ‘overloaded’ vehicles

The Division of Public Works and Highways says preliminary findings point out three vehicles carrying cargo exceeded the Piggatan Bridge’s 18-ton capability

MANILA, Philippines – The Piggatan Bridge in Alcala, Cagayan, collapsed on Monday afternoon, October 6.

The Division of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) stated in an announcement on Monday that preliminary findings point out that three vehicles, every weighing round 50 tons, had been on the bridge on the time, “far exceeding” its 18-ton capability and certain inflicting the construction to break down.

Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay stated in an interview with DZMM Teleradyo that two of the vehicles had been carrying rice, whereas the third was loaded with metal.

“Itong bridge na ito ay might kalumaan na. Nagsabay ang dalawang truck na might lulan na palay na round 40 to 50 tons, at isang truck na might lulan na 40 tons na bakal,” Aglipay stated.

(This bridge is already fairly outdated. Two vehicles carrying round 40 to 50 tons of rice crossed on the similar time, together with one other truck carrying 40 tons of metal.)

The drivers of the vehicles are all underneath the custody of the Philippine Nationwide Police, in accordance with the governor.

Aglipay additionally known as for a right away restoration plan for the collapsed bridge, noting its significance forward of the upcoming harvest season, because it serves as an important hyperlink between Alcala and Aparri. He ordered the creation of a rerouting plan to make sure the continued motion of products between the northern and southern components of Cagayan.

Alcala Mayor Cristina “Tin” Antonio suggested gentle autos to make use of the Piggatan Circumferential Street as an alternate route. In the meantime, heavy autos had been directed to take the Baybayog, Alcala–San Jose, Baggao–Capissayan, and Dummun, Gattaran roads.

Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon stated he has dispatched a group to conduct an intensive injury evaluation of the bridge.

The Cagayan governor additionally requested the DPWH regional workplace in Cagayan Valley to determine different bridges that will want monitoring to stop related incidents. – Rappler.com