Paradigm Shift required to bifurcate carrying capacity of span of a bridge with that of its durability in structural investigation of long span bridges

Serious deflection in a long span bridge alerts engineers as it was in distress. Heavy vehicular traffic suspended on the bridge. It is followed by a detailed inspection and investigation. The investigation involves verification of existing engineering parameters through non-destructive and semi destructive tests to peep through the structural members, followed by a span load test. The results of chemistry of concrete investigated by NDT and semi destructive tests found to be not satisfactory, whereas span load test passed satisfactorily. Scene-2, a series of bridges in a single project failed to show minimum readings in internal integrity tests and engineers suggested for a span load test, so that if it passes in span load test, it can be certified as fit. Span load tests indicated bridges are in fit condition. Continuing further on both scenes the physical conditions i.e., load carrying capacity of the structures are certified fit, whereas chemical characteristics, like pH value, internal integrity and other internal parameters fail to reach satisfactory levels.