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[ projects ] → [ asia ] → [ 80m bridge ]

An 80m bridge: THAILAND

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In May 2007, Article 25 were approached by The Whispering Seed, a US registered charity, to design a bridge as the previous one had been washed away by flooding.  Following this, Article 25 enlisted the services of a Senior Bridge Engineer from Buro Happold and a team of experienced carpenters to design and build a bridge of a span of approximately 80 metres.

Site visits carried out allowed for consultation with the community and the local authorities to explore the best approach to the project.  Detailed preparation and in depth research into bamboo and other potential construction materials (see Shoots), ensured the limitations and constraints, as well as the strengths and opportunities the site provided for the bridge, were fully explored.  The bridge must be able to withstand a seasonal river level change of 2+ metres, be safe for children to use and be able to carry a scooter and sidecar.  The design of the bridge must allow for easy maintenance as well as the ability to develop more permanence as funds become available. Without the bridge it is near impossible for The Whispering Seed to reach their farm.  

[ project location ]

Wiakhadi, a small village 25 km away from Sangklaburi, Thailand, 8 km from the Thai-Burmese border.

[ project partner ]

The Whispering Seed, a US registered charity.  They own a small farm which serves as a base for educational and vocational activities and limited accommodation.  The Whispering Seed work in support of displaced hilltribe people on the Thai-Burmese border. 

[ project cost ]

A budget of $40,000 has been allocated to the bridge.

[ project type ]

Article 25 were appointed to design a new footbridge to facilitate access to farmland and vocational centre.  The design uses locally sourced hardwood structure, modular dimensioned timber truss construction, timber log pile foundations and trestle frames.

[ problem addressed ]

Many people have been displaced from Thai and Burmese hill tribes and refugees.  There are several refugee camps in the area.  The river that Whispering Seed have to cross in order to reach their farm is prone to flash floods and bank dislocation in the rainy season.  Unfortunately, the previous bridge was washed away by flooding in 2006.