Miaoli's Shi-bi Bridge abutment displacement and tilting; reconstruction assessment by month's end

The Shi-bi Bridge on Provincial Highway 21 in Nanzhuang Township, Miaoli County, is facing a critical situation after sustaining severe damage from Typhoon Bawei. The bridge's abutments have reportedly shifted and tilted, leading to significant structural concerns. Currently, the road is only passable via single-lane traffic, managed by the Nanzhuang Township Office.

Miaoli County Councilor Yang Wen-chang raised concerns about the bridge's worsening cracks during a special session of the county council. He urged the Miaoli County Government to address the issue promptly, especially considering the ongoing major construction projects within the tribal areas that rely on the bridge for access. Yang fears that the deteriorating condition could eventually prevent heavy machinery from entering the sites.

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The bridge is cracking more and more severely.

In response, Ku Ming-hung, Director of the County Government's Department of Transportation and Public Works, confirmed that a bridge inspection had been conducted. The assessment revealed displacement and tilting of the No. 2 abutment. Consequently, the bridge has been restricted to vehicles weighing 10 tons or less. The county government has applied to the central government for disaster recovery funds and has proposed a complete reconstruction of the bridge.

The Executive Yuan's Public Construction Commission is scheduled to conduct a site inspection at the end of the month. This assessment will determine whether a full reconstruction is necessary. If approved, a temporary bridge will be constructed to accommodate larger vehicles, ensuring continued access for essential transport and construction activities in the region.

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The bridge has undergone inspection, revealing displacement and tilting of the second abutment. It is currently restricted to vehicles under 10 tons. We have applied for disaster recovery funds and proposed a complete reconstruction.