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How much force is in a bridge allision?

How much force is in a bridge allision?

Alphenaar
Photo: ad.nl

On the evening of November 29, the residents near the Coenecoop Bridge in Waddinxveen, Netherlands discovered how much of an impact a bridge allision can be. The 90 meter long self-propelled container-barge Alphenaar (MMSI: 244059204) was proceeding on the Gouwe River when it struck one of the pillars of the bridge. Residents stated they could hear a loud bang and many houses shook from the allision. Traffic on the bridge and on the river was halted for several hours until the vessel and bridge could be inspected. While the inspection found no damage to the bridge, the Alphenaar sustained limited bow damage. Authorities allowed the vessel to proceed on its journey.  No reports of injuries or pollution released. See video of allision at ad.nl

Alphenaar
Photo: ad.nl

The Alphenaar was involved in prior allision this year near Gouda on October 26.

Alphenaar

Alphenaar

Alphenaar
Photo: 112hm.nl

On the morning of October 24, the 90 meter long self-propelled container barge Alphenaar (MMSI: 244059204) allided with the railway bridge over the Gouwe River near Gouda, Netherlands. The Alphenaar became wedged under the bridge as it attempted to pass underneath. The Alphenaar was able to free itself and added some additional ballast water to help lower the barge in the water. The vessel then proceeded safely under the bridge. Authorities detained the Alphenaar when it reach the lock to the Hollandsche Ijssel. Train traffic was halted near Gouda until engineers could investigate the damage to the bridge.

Reports state traffic resumed on the bridge a few hours later.  No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released on the Alphenaar.

Mordicus

Mordicus

Mordicus
Photo: sleutelstad.nl

On the morning of October 11, the 70 meter long self-propelled barge Mordicus (MMSI: 244740107) allided with a railway bridge over the Gouwe River near the Alpherium Terminal in Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands. The Mordicus attempted to pass under the partially open swing bridge when its bow struck the bridge and became stuck. Rail traffic and shipping traffic on the Gouwe was temporary suspended for a day until the barge could be freed.

Reports state damage to the Mordicus‘s bow was minor. No reports of injuries or pollution released. The incident is under investigation.

Damage to the bridge was also limited, but an inspection found the bridge no longer met safety and technical standards. The inspection revealed the swing bridge had deteriorated where it could become permanently stuck at any time. Authorities state the bridge will need to be replaced in the near future blocking traffic on the rail and river for over 9 months.