Yakutia's Ambitious Bridge Project Delays Floating Cofferdams Until 2026

Yakutia is preparing to float two large cofferdams into the Lena River as part of a major bridge construction project. The operation, originally planned for last year, has now been rescheduled for spring 2026 to ensure smoother execution. This marks the first time such floating structures will be used in Russian bridge-building due to the region’s challenging conditions.

Two cofferdams have been fully assembled—one for pier No. 9 and another for pier No. 10. The side cofferdam for pier No. 10 is already ready for launch. However, the main structure for the same pier will wait until the spring flood to be floated into position.

Last year’s attempt to launch a cofferdam was abandoned after sediment buildup in the river made the operation impractical. Dredging the area would have been too expensive, leading to the postponement. This time, the river operation is set for early to mid-June, timed after the ice drift and when water levels peak. VIS Group, the project’s general contractor, is overseeing the work. Vladimir Sivtsev, Yakutia’s Minister of Transport and Road Infrastructure, has stressed the need to stick to deadlines. The use of floating cofferdams is a new approach in Russia, chosen specifically to handle the harsh conditions of the site.

The cofferdams will play a crucial role in constructing the bridge’s foundations. By waiting for higher water levels in 2026, the team aims to avoid the delays and extra costs faced last year. The project’s success depends on precise timing and the effectiveness of this innovative method.