SMEC Investigates Major River Crossing in Papua New Guinea

SMEC will undertake hydrologic and hydraulic investigations that will assist in identifying optimum site options for Buso River Bridge.

SMEC has been appointed by the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Department of Works (DoW) to provide consultancy services on the Buso River Bridge Hydrological Investigation. Located in Morobe Province, the Buso River is among the fastest flowing rivers in the world.

Following extensive damage to the existing Buso River Bridge during major flooding, the DoW has proposed the design and construction of a new river crossing comprised of a multi-span structure with intermediate piers. Prior to undertaking design works, the DoW has engaged SMEC to undertake hydrologic and hydraulic investigations that will assist in identifying optimum site options, and will provide essential data on the bridge structure to enable a bridge design and construction tender.

SMEC’s services will include: determining the Buso River catchment area; assessing rainfall intensities, flood levels and flow velocities for 20, 50, 100 and 2,000 year return periods (with consideration of climate change impacts); modelling of the river crossing site (including a 20 m wide debris mat restricting water flow at each intermediate pier); identifying the susceptibility of riverbanks to erosion; recommending appropriate upstream and downstream river training works; and preparing a report outlining the results and recommendations of the hydrologic and hydraulic investigations.