"We will become a model answer leading the management and operation of privately funded roads in Korea."
Kim Sunghwan, CEO of Machang Bridge Co., Ltd., made this statement regarding the future operation plans of Machang Bridge, which marks its 16th anniversary since opening.
Officially opened on July 1, 2008, Machang Bridge is a 1.7 km-long sea bridge connecting Gapo-dong in Masanhappo-gu and Gwisandong in Seongsan-gu, Changwon, Gyeongnam.
Named after the first syllables of Masan and Changwon, which were separate cities at the time, Machang Bridge is considered a core transportation facility and tourist attraction in Changwon, used by an average of 46,000 vehicles per day.
Machang Bridge Tollgate Vehicle Collision Prevention Protective Facility. Photo by Machang Bridge Corporation
CEO Kim stated that he has taken the lead in ensuring safe and pleasant road operation to make Machang Bridge a sea bridge beloved by the public.
For the first time in Korea, a four-tiered circular suicide prevention facility was additionally installed on the existing bridge railings, and fire extinguishers and various safety signs were placed throughout the bridge in preparation for fires.
At the entrance to the tollgate, facilities such as road crossing prevention barriers, speed bumps, and emergency broadcasting systems were installed to protect staff from vehicle collision accidents at the toll booths.
In cooperation with related agencies, joint disaster response drills are regularly conducted to protect lives and facilities from natural disasters such as typhoons, heavy rain, strong winds, earthquakes, as well as social disasters like traffic and maritime accidents.
Seonghwan Kim, CEO of Machang Bridge (right), is holding the Ministry of Economy and Finance Commendation in the corporate category received at the 16th National Sustainable Management (ESG) Conference in 2022. [Photo by Machang Bridge Co., Ltd.]
CEO Kim said, "The best safety management and the best operation model?these are what Machang Bridge aims for," adding, "To this end, we have installed various safety facilities for customers and staff at the bridge and tollgate."
He continued, "Perhaps our efforts have paid off, as we have been certified as an excellent disaster risk reduction company by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety and as an excellent company in risk assessment by the Korea Occupational Safety and Health Agency. These are encouragements to do even better in the future."
Machangdaegyo Co., Ltd. donated scholarships to Masan Gapogodong High School in Changwon, Gyeongnam. Photo by Machangdaegyo Co., Ltd.
CEO Kim pledged to continue regular donations to the Community Chest of Korea, which began in 2017, as well as scholarship programs for local elementary, middle, and high school students, medical expense support for low-income families, and donations to welfare facilities.
He said, "Giving back the love we've received and achieving mutual growth with the local community is exactly what social contribution activities are all about."
"Although Machang Bridge has been recognized as a leading donor company and received a commendation from the Governor of Gyeongnam Province for consistent social contribution activities, the greatest honor and joy is being praised by local residents," he said, adding, "We will continue to share and give so that Machang Bridge is highly regarded by the community."
Commemorative photo for Hope 2023 Neighborly Love Merit Award and Joining as the 7th Sharing Excellence Company in Gyeongnam by Machangdaegyo Corporation. Photo by Machangdaegyo Corporation
He added that Machang Bridge has been recognized for its bridge operation efforts, including receiving a commendation from the Ministry of Economy and Finance at the 16th National Sustainable Management (ESG) Conference in 2022, earning a 4-Star rating from the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB), ranking first among privately funded roads and road assets in Asia, and 12th globally. He pledged to further commit to sustainable management.
CEO Kim emphasized, "Since the opening of Machang Bridge, we have opened a convenient and safe road together with our customers. Generous investments for customer safety, diverse annual social contribution activities, and environmental protection efforts are essential tasks for Machang Bridge."
He also pledged, "Together with our major shareholder, Macquarie Korea Infrastructure Fund (MKIF), we will manage the road in optimal condition for the convenience of local residents, actively work to prevent industrial accidents, and strive for mutual growth with the local community. We will become a company that leads the management and operation of privately funded roads."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
