The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Iloilo is urging the Bureau of Designs of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to revalidate and recheck their geological findings or studies conducted in three flyover projects in the province.

The provincial legislative body is expected to craft a resolution as an offshoot of the committee hearing conducted by committees on infrastructure; and transportation, communication, and public utilities held on Wednesday afternoon that looked into the status of the Ungka II Flyover project located at the intersection of the Benigno S. Aquino Jr. Avenue and the Pres. Corazon C. Aquino in Barangay Ungka, Pavia town.

The DPWH is implementing three flyover projects in Iloilo province including the PHP560-million Aganan Flyover in Barangay Aganan in Pavia; the PHP520-million Buhang Flyover along the Iloilo Circumferential Road -1 crossing Iloilo-Capiz Road (new route) in Barangay Buhang in Jaro district here; and the PHP591-million Jibao-an Flyover in Barangay Hibao-an in Mandurriao district.

The PHP680-million four-lane Ungka II flyover is temporarily closed to traffic since Sept. 18, just two weeks after its full opening due to vertical displacements or shifting observed in its three piers or support structures that extend to the ground below.

Piers are employed for bridges, flyovers, and elevated roads.

The movement was observed in three out of the 16 piers, said committee on infrastructure chairperson Board Member Rolando Distura, in an interview on Thursday.

He added that DPWH Assistant Regional Director Engr. Al Fruto, during their hearing, categorically said that there was no problem with the implementation so “most likely the problem is with the design”.

Distura said they did not factor in other parameters, like the geological study.

“For now they have to stabilize the areas that were closed and do the shoring to prevent the movement. Most likely by Oct. 15 they will already start with jet-grouting (method for soil stabilization), like injecting cement to eventually stabilize and strengthen the area,” he said, quoting Fruto during the hearing.

Distura added that he did not see a possibility of crafting a local law as a result of the committee hearing but they will be passing resolutions.

“The output is the resolution requesting the DPWH Bureau of Designs to revalidate, recheck their geological findings and study in three remaining flyovers and consider all factors related to the geological study,” he said.

The SP will also request the Iloilo city government and the municipal government of Pavia to increase the number of traffic aides in the area and for the riding public to look for alternative routes if possible.

The contractor of the Ungka II Flyover-International Builders Corporation- is also requested to acquire three jet-grouting equipment so the repair works will be done simultaneously to lessen the period of closure.

Fruto, according to the board member, placed the repair of one pier to take about a month and they target to open the flyover to motorists on or before Christmas. (PNA)