SOUTHERN ACCESS ROAD

A Joint National Authorization Officer, mutually agreed upon by GOS and the Government of Kenya (GOK), will supervise project implementation by a private construction contractor with assistance from an engineering consultant and pertinent GOS and GOK agencies. Grant funds will be used for construction in Sudan only. A 620 km road will be constructed between Juba, Sudan, and Lodwar, Kenya to meet modified Minimum Commercial Access standards. Construction will include 48 minor structures (36 in Sudan) and 8 major structures (seven in Sudan), including 111 box culverts and 13 bridges, as well as drainage structures, pipes, and 58 km of diversion roads (45 km in Sudan) to connect structures with existing roads. Stone drifts between Lokickokio and Kapoeta will be constructed by GOS Force Account. All structures will be designed to give correct hydraulic waterway openings at specified rainfall frequencies and height. Road width will be 6.0 meters to serve up to 250 vehicles per day, with a minimum grade rise of 0.6 meters to protect the roadbed from surface drainage and prevent erosion. Pavement thickness will be 15 cm of lateritic or gravel materials. Load restrictions of 12,000 kilos per vehicle will be enforced at two permanent weigh stations to be constructed (one in each country). New roads will be designed for a speed of 80 km per hour; diversion roads for a minimum speed of 50 km per hour. The contractor will provide on-the-job training to counterpart foremen and heavy equipment operators. The contractor will also provide technical assistance, on-the-job training, and spare parts to three units (two in Sudan, one in Kenya) to gravel 582 km of existing roads. Maintenance centers in Juba and Lodwar will be upgraded by the provision of on-the-job training to counterpart mechanics and procurement clerks. Routine maintenance of the existing road between Lodwar and 40 km east of Juba will be financed by GOS Force Account.