RIVER AND COASTAL ENGINEERING

Developing innovative and cost-effective river and coastal engineering solutions requires experience in a wide range of water engineering disciplines including hydrology, flood control, hydrodynamic and hydraulic modelling, erosion protection, storm water modelling, drainage, bridges and hydraulic structures. In addition, today’s engineering designs are increasingly required to meet strict environmental, social and economic criteria. SSI’s diverse team of professionals provide both private and public sector clients with the broad range of specialist skills needed to develop integrated solutions that balance these often competing demands. Our professional staff use the latest modelling, CAD and GIS tools to provide effective and appropriate delivery and support to clients, thereby providing world class solutions that manage and interface with today’s GIS and data management systems. Recent projects have included the development of flood control options for the Coega River in the Eastern Cape (South Africa), the Lourens River near Somerset West (South Africa), design of a salinity control weir on the Anony River (Madagascar) and hydraulic design of bridge structures for a number of major national roads. Our expertise includes: Flood control Floodlines and fllood studies Erosion protection Hydraulic structures and bridges Drainage works Stormwater modelling Hydraulic and hydrodynamic modelling

PROJECTS Coega River Flood Control Project SSI were appointed in August 2004 by the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) to investigate and develop options for flood control on the lower portion of the Coega River near Port Elizabeth. Demand for land in close proximity to the recently completed Port of Ngqura, which has been earmarked for development of a metallurgical industrial cluster, led to interest in flood control. SSI initially undertook a floodline determination study followed by a detailed investigation of flood control options. These included a flood control dam, various canalisation options, construction of flood control levees and a number of river diversion options. The project included an environmental scoping study and a cost-benefit study. The project is part one of the largest port and industrial developments in South Africa, which will ultimately provide jobs for thousands of currently unemployed South Africans. The Coega River Project required development of engineering options within a delicate conservation area. Contact: Balarka Robinson balarkar@ssi.co.za (011) 798-6000