Double-deck Doka for Jamrat

Doka formwork systems are being used for all cast in-situ elements on the structure, which is due to be completed in October 2008.

Doka formwork is enabling the rapid construction of a multi-level bridge designed to provide safe access for millions of pilgrims taking part in a key Islamic ritual in the Saudi Arabian city of Mina.

The project involves rebuilding the Jamrat Bridge, which provides access for pilgrims to throw stones at three pillars -each known as a jamrah - in a ritual that symbolises the stoning of the devil. It is part of the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage to nearby holy city Makkah. A multi-storey bridge - which replaces a single-deck structure - is now under construction and is expected to increase capacity and improve safety.

Work began in January 2006 and completion is due in October 2008. Contractor Saudi Bin Ladin is casting some 450,000m3 of concrete to create the structure.

All the cast in-situ elements are being formed using Doka systems. This includes entry and exit ramps, interchanges between levels, decks, beams, columns, lift and stairwells and several tower-mounted helipads, which have a particularly complex design, with flared concrete fins supporting the landing areas.

Creating the bridge's wide range of structural shapes requires extensive formwork from many different Doka systems including Top 50 large area formwork, whose ease of assembly makes it ideal for the volume of work involved and the speed needed, according to Doka. Two types of framed formwork are also in use. Frameco enables short framing times. It can form wall heights of up to 3m - or higher when stacked and given additional support. Frami small panel formwork is used for smaller areas as it enables fast and economical forming.

The proven Doka 150F climbing formwork provides an economical and speedy solution for the many columns. The modular system can be quickly repositioned, keeping crane usage to a minimum. It is used with Doka folding bracket K, enabling the platform and formwork to be lifted together.

Extensive quantities of Doka's D2 supporting scaffold are also in use throughout the site.

"The project was particularly challenging because of the short delivery time required for such a huge quantity of formwork," said Waell Bulbul from Doka.

"But we succeeded in meeting the demanding timescale. We produced all of the shop and assembly drawings in just one and a half months and took less than three months to deliver all the formwork needed to cast almost half a million cubic metres of concrete."

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