Veluwemeer Aqueduct A Dutch Marvel of Engineering

Veluwemeer Aqueduct: A Dutch Marvel of Engineering

While most bridges allow roads to pass over water, this one allows water to pass over a road.

The Veluwemeer Aqueduct, located near Harderwijk in the Netherlands, continues to captivate visitors worldwide. This innovative structure, built in 2002, allows the N302 road to pass under the Veluwemeer lake while boats sail seamlessly above. Spanning 25 meters and with a water depth of 3 meters, it’s a symbol of Dutch expertise in integrating transportation and water management.

Veluwemeer Aqueduct A Dutch Marvel of Engineering

Blending function and beauty, the aqueduct is also a popular tourist attraction, offering pedestrian walkways for stunning views of this engineering wonder. It exemplifies how infrastructure can harmonize with nature and recreation.

Veluwemeer Aqueduct A Dutch Marvel of Engineering

Technical Specifications of the Veluwemeer Aqueduct:

  1. Dimensions:
    • Length: 25 meters (bridge section).
    • Width: Approximately 19 meters, accommodating water and pedestrian areas.
    • Water Depth: 3 meters, sufficient for small boats and sailboats.
  2. Materials Used:
    • Reinforced concrete for durability and resistance to water erosion.
    • Waterproofing layers to protect the structure and ensure longevity.
  3. Design Features:
    • The road beneath is part of the N302 route, a major connection between mainland Gelderland and Flevoland.
    • Traffic beneath the aqueduct includes two vehicle lanes in each direction, with pedestrian access on the sides.
  4. Engineering Innovations:
    • A robust drainage system prevents water seepage into the road area.
    • The weight and pressure of the water above are carefully balanced to avoid structural strain.

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