According to Infraestruturas de Portugal (IP), “due to difficulties in the timely supply of equipment necessary for the development of the work”, it becomes “essential” to maintain the ban on road traffic on the bridge, at kilometre 72.816 of the National Road 122 (EN122), which connects the districts of Faro and Beja, in the south-east of Portugal.

“Therefore, the traffic diversions created, and which are duly signposted, will remain in force until September 30, when traffic is expected to be fully restored at the site”, estimated the company, given the impossibility of reopening previously announced for May 17.

Infraestruturas de Portugal appealed for “better understanding” from EN122 users regarding “any inconvenience” caused by the delay caused by difficulties in supplying material.

The company highlighted that the ongoing works aim to carry out a “rehabilitation and structural reinforcement of the Vascão Bridge on the EN122” and ensure “improved levels of availability, reliability, comfort and safety” of the crossing over the river of the same name, which marks the territorial division between the Algarve and Alentejo.

“The intervention includes the complete replacement of the road deck, the creation of a 6-meter wide carriageway, which has two lanes, one in each direction; two hard shoulders and two walkways”, he explained.

“Paving, signage and safety barriers will also be installed”, added the Portuguese road network manager.