The Sejong-Anseong Expressway Disaster Investigation Committee (Sajowi) will extend the investigation period by two months.
On the 25th, Sajowi noted that it is necessary to extend the investigation period by two months to conduct additional investigations and analyses related to the bridge girder collapse at the construction site of section 9 of the Sejong-Anseong Expressway, which occurred on Feb. 25. Consequently, the investigation period will be extended until June 30.
Sajowi, which began its kickoff meeting on Feb. 28, has conducted three field investigations, nine committee meetings, hearings with stakeholders, quality tests, document reviews, and discussions on collapse scenarios by specialty to identify specific causes and develop measures to prevent recurrence.
In this process, Sajowi determined that additional investigations were necessary, including reviewing the reusability of girders and piers, analyzing CCTV footage for equipment and pier tilt using specialized equipment, and conducting structural analysis for each collapse scenario through 3D modeling. Sajowi plans to conduct additional analyses through a separate specialized company during the extended period.
Chairperson Oh Hong-seob of Sajowi stated, "We are keeping all possibilities open regarding the cause of the accident and are meticulously examining even minor details from multiple angles," and added, "We will comprehensively review not only the results of the investigation conducted so far but also the additional analysis results from the specialized company to promptly establish objective identification of the cause and prevention measures for recurrence."