ABSTRACT
Due to significant changes in modern bridge design codes requirement majority of old railway bridges fail to comply with new design requirements. However, these bridges are still in service and are subject to heavier loads than they originally designed for. Consequently, these bridges are either required substantial strengthening or reduced speed or load that can safely be carried by these bridges. In some extreme condition when strengthening of restriction are not viable options they will need to be replaced which will pose financial burden to operators and asset owners. In this paper some of the challenges in load rating of the old railway bridges particularly under longitudinal loadings are scrutinized. The case study presented in this investigation can be applicable to similar structures and similar approaches can be adopted.
