Dutch consultancy and engineering firm DHV is again designing a major barrier in South Korea. The new contract is for a barrier in the Yongam River that runs through the country’s principal rice growing area. This is the third large water project that DHV is carrying out in the Asian country.
The winning design is a movable barrier 330 meters long that forms an extension of the existing dam. When high river discharges occur the structure will make it possible for the water to flow into the sea. The structure also provides protection against high water coming from the sea. The existing dam cannot let water run off into the sea, resulting in frequent flooding in the lower courses of the river.
Through this contract DHV has reconfirmed its leading position as a hydraulic engineering consultant in South Korea. Within a short time the group has been awarded several major projects. DHV is cooperating with Korean company K-Water on the development of the Gyeong-in Ara Waterway, one of the largest hydraulic engineering projects in the country. DHV is also designing the Nakdong Barrier, another prestigious barrier in South Korea.
The Yongam project is linked to the 4 Major Rivers program of the South Korean government. This program will revitalize the four principal rivers of the country and retain fresh water. However, it must be possible to discharge river water into the sea on time whenever high river discharges occur. The South Korean government also wants to stimulate economies along the waterways by developing recreation. The program forms part of the New Deal of the South Korean government for more jobs and a stronger economy.
The most challenging aspect of the Yongam contract is the barrier’s integration with a six-lane highway and an entirely new city currently under development. It has been decided to arch a steel roof over the highway. This will serve primarily as a noise barrier. But it has also been made suitable for recreation. The roof provides a view across the dam and the sea.
The project involves an investment of approximately USD 200 million. The client is the Korean Rural Community Corporation. DHV is cooperating with Korean company Hanyang and the Dutch firms KDb architects from Doetinchem and Bosch Rexroth from Boxtel. Construction is due to start this year.