Project description

This project provides replacement crossings within the Lesotho Highlands as part of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) Phase II, replacing A1 crossings that will be inundated by the Polihali Dam. As rerouting would bypass key communities, three new bridges will cross the reservoir, including the 825m-long Senqu Bridge. The 16-span, post-tensioned deck incorporates a 100m extradosed section and is being incrementally launched from both abutments. Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) supports construction verification and lifecycle management.

Judge’s comments

The lasting social impact of this project extends well beyond the bridge itself. Extensive stakeholder engagement helped ensure the bridge responded to local needs. Delivering a major bridge in such a remote environment also required innovative construction and launching techniques to overcome considerable logistical challenges. The result is a significant infrastructure asset that combines technical achievement with lasting social value.

Structural Designer

  • Zutari

Client Name

  • Lesotho Highland Development Authority

Location

  • Lesotho

Principal Contractor

  • WRES JV

Key Contractors

  • Site supervision personnel: White Life Consultants

Year Submitted

  • 2026

Key attributes

  • People