Plans are being drawn up for a new structure to replace the Morandi Bridge in Italy, which collapsed recently with disastrous results. The Italian road firm Autostrade per l’Italia (ASPI) has a draft design that features eight supports, unlike the failed Morandi Bridge, which was designed with 11 supports. The new bridge design also includes a deck that features emergency lanes, which were not included on the old Morandi Bridge.
Meanwhile a plan has also been drawn up for the removal of the failed Morandi Bridge structure. Different demolition techniques will be utilised to remove the damaged structure, including the use of hydraulic cutting equipment and breakers mounted on long reach excavators for controlled demolition, as well as tightly-controlled blasting. One section of the failed bridge stands above housing and presents particular challenges to its safe removal. Should the demolition work go to plan, the structure should be removed by October 2018.
