MASERU, Lesotho – The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) announced significant progress on the Polihali reservoir project with the upcoming construction of the Senqu Bridge. This engineering marvel will be the largest of three major bridges built to span the reservoir, marking a significant milestone in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP).
Standing tall at 90 meters and stretching nearly a kilometer (825 meters) long, the Senqu Bridge will hold the title of Lesotho’s first extradosed bridge. This innovative design surpasses the Mphorosane Bridge on the Malibamats’o River, constructed during Phase I of the LHWP. Notably, the Senqu Bridge’s design incorporates the harsh winter conditions prevalent in the Mokhotlong highlands.
The bridge’s construction will utilize a unique approach due to the area’s deep valley and challenging terrain. The deck will be built incrementally, extending outwards from both ends simultaneously.
Planning for the bridge began in 2018 under the leadership of Zutari, a design firm previously known as Aurecon Lesotho. This firm is also responsible for designing the Mabunyaneng and Khubelu bridges, the two other major bridges planned for Phase II.
In August 2022, the LHDA awarded the construction contract for the Senqu Bridge, valued at approximately M2 billion, to the WRES Senqu Bridge Joint Venture. This joint venture adheres to the Phase II agreement by incorporating South African, Lesotho, and international companies.
