Nine Arch Bridge Demodara colonial brick masonry: hydraulic lime mortar engineering?
Why was the Nine Arch viaduct constructed entirely of hand-cut granite stone blocks and hydraulic cement without a single structural steel beam in 1921?
More
4 Answers from travellers
The Nine Arch Bridge (Ahas Namaye Palama) spans 300 feet on a 10-degree curve between Ella and Demodara. Designed under British chief engineer D.J. Wimalasurendra and contractor P.K. Appuhami, construction coincided with World War I steel shortages. The entire viaduct was re-engineered to eliminate structural steel trusses. It was constructed using dressed granite stone blocks, kiln-fired clay bricks, and hydraulic lime-cement mortar. The nine semi-circular arch spans transfer compressive loads down to massive stone piers anchored into valley bedrock without requiring rebar reinforcement.
A wooden trestle scaffolding system built from jungle timber supported the green masonry arches until mortar cured and keystones were driven home.
Walking onto the active railway track over the bridge between train passes is strictly prohibited by railway police; use designated valley tea estate trails.
The bridge structure incorporates natural weep holes that drain groundwater percolating through the tea-covered hillside, preventing hydro-static wall pressure.
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log In to AnswerRelated questions
- Wildlife parks in Sri Lanka beyond Yala - Wilpattu, Minneriya, Udawalawe - which is worth visiting?2 answers
- Kandy Esala Perahera - when does it happen, where are the best viewing spots, and how do I get seats?2 answers
- Arugam Bay vs Weligama for intermediate surfing - which should I choose and why?2 answers
- Best local food to eat in Colombo - where do locals actually eat and what should I try?2 answers
- How cheap can you realistically travel Sri Lanka on a shoestring - $25-30 USD per day?2 answers
- Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka - what to expect and how to find genuine treatment vs tourist trap?2 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture