Redefining Coastal Infrastructure: The Pancian Viaduct Project

The construction of viaducts or bridges above water comes with its own set of challenges, with one of the most critical being scouring of the toe, where water flow erodes the bed material around bridge supports. In the picturesque region of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, such challenges were confronted head-on in the ambitious Pancian Viaduct project. Spearheaded by MAC Builders and designed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 1, this project aimed to overcome the erosive forces of the open sea, ensuring the stability and longevity of the structure spanning over 1.7 kilometers.

The Pancian Viaduct encountered significant challenges due to toe scouring, threatening the structure’s stability. With nearly half of its length exposed to erosive forces, ensuring the viaduct’s longevity became a pressing concern.

In response to the scouring challenge, Mactubes by Maccaferri were implemented as a practical solution. These tubes, filled with sand and strategically positioned at the base of bridge piers and abutments, proved instrumental in mitigating erosive forces. Crafted from durable polypropylene woven geotextiles, Mactubes were specifically designed for marine environments and hydraulic structures, offering unparalleled strength and resilience. Serving as a protective barrier, they effectively dissipated the energy of flowing water, thereby minimizing erosive impact on the riverbed and bolstering the viaduct’s stability and longevity.

The advantages of Mactubes extend beyond mere protection. Their inherent flexibility and adaptability to various site conditions make them an ideal choice for erosion control in water infrastructure projects. Furthermore, the geotextile materials utilized in Mactubes ensure durability and resistance to environmental factors, further solidifying their reputation as a reliable solution for combating scouring issues.

The Pancian Viaduct’s completion showcases the effectiveness of Maccaferri Mactubes in combating toe scouring and ensuring coastal infrastructure resilience. The strategic use of Mactubes sets a new standard, underlining the importance of innovative solutions in overcoming construction challenges. As travelers cross the viaduct, they do so with confidence in its stability, a testament to collaborative engineering excellence and commitment to longevity.

• Designer / Consultant: DPWH Region 1
• Contractor: Mac Builders

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