Construction of the new Icoaraci/Outeiro bridge continues normally after vessel accident

The State Government, through the State Secretariat of Infrastructure and Logistics (Seinfra), reported on Monday (18) that the construction of the new cable-stayed bridge between Icoaraci and Outeiro, in Belém, is proceeding normally after the accident that occurred on Sunday (17), when a tugboat hit equipment used in the work. The impact did not cause structural damage to the bridge and no victims were reported.

According to the Secretary of Infrastructure and Logistics, Adler Silveira, the damages were only to auxiliary equipment used in the assembly of the stay cables, which are responsible for supporting the bridge deck along with the central mast.

“It is important to make it clear that there was no damage to the structure of the bridge, both in the construction of the deck and in the pillars. Yesterday, the incident resulted in material damage concerning the equipment used in the work. There were no victims, and we continue at an accelerated pace to deliver this important work to the population as soon as possible,” he stated.

Still on Sunday, after the initial investigations, work was resumed and continued until 5 PM. On Monday, the service continues at a normal pace, with 85% of the project already completed. “Yesterday, after the incident and the investigations, the work continued, and today it proceeds normally, so that we can deliver this benefit to the population as soon as possible,” the secretary added.

Since its conception, the project has been submitted to the Port Authority and to the companies that use the Maguari channel for navigation, receiving all approvals. The navigation clearance of the bridge is 11.40 meters at high tide and 13.90 meters at low tide, ensuring safety for vessels of different sizes.

“It is worth noting that this bridge will have a greater height than the old Outeiro bridge, enhancing navigability and providing even more safety for large vessel operations,” Adler emphasized.

The case

The accident occurred at 7:15 AM when the tugboat was navigating through the Maguari channel and collided with equipment used for stretching the bridge cables. At that time, there were no workers on site.

The Civil Police reported that the commander of the vessel was arrested in the act and charged with endangering navigation safety and causing damage to public property.

The new bridge

The project by the Government of Pará is executed by Seinfra. With a length of 414 meters and a width of 10.5 meters, the central section of the public facility will be supported by a cable-stayed structure, composed of steel cables that ensure greater resistance and safety. The innovative design used in the bridge offers two navigation spans of 117 meters each, ensuring the fluidity and protection of waterway traffic.

The work is considered strategic for the integration of the region, benefiting residents who depend daily on the connection between the districts, as well as boosting tourism, the local economy, and the quality of life of the population. In addition to improving mobility, the project will facilitate access to the beaches of Outeiro, one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the region.