Kolkata, India – The iconic Howrah Bridge, a vital lifeline for the city, will be fully closed to vehicular movement from midnight on Saturday, November 16, until the early hours of Sunday, November 17, for an extensive health check-up. This significant inspection marks the first comprehensive evaluation of the bridge in 36 years, highlighting the ongoing commitment to ensure its long-term safety and functionality. The health check-up is a collaborative effort between the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, also known as Kolkata Port Trust, and RITES, an expert agency tasked with conducting the thorough examination. According to an official statement, the bridge, also referred to as Rabindra Setu, will be closed to all vehicles from 11:30 PM on Saturday night until 4:30 AM on Sunday morning.
Officials from the Kolkata Port Trust, which oversees the maintenance of the bridge, emphasized that the temporary closure is crucial for allowing the inspection to proceed without disruptions. Authorities are advising commuters to plan alternative routes during the closure period to minimize inconvenience. This extensive evaluation is essential as it will inform future maintenance and preservation strategies for the Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel that symbolizes Kolkata’s rich heritage and resilience. The last comprehensive inspection took place between 1983 and 1988, following 40 years of uninterrupted service since the bridge's opening in February 1943.
Spanning 1,500 feet between its two iconic towers, the Rabindra Setu accommodates a daily influx of vehicles and pedestrians, boasting a carriageway width of 71 feet and two 18.5-feet-wide footpaths for pedestrians. The bridge's load-bearing system consists of 78 hangers, which effectively transfer the weight of the superstructure to the concrete deck slabs beneath the bituminous surface. While routine maintenance, including road surface repairs, has been carried out over the years, this comprehensive health study aims to further ensure the longevity and integrity of the beloved structure. As the city prepares for the temporary closure, the Howrah Bridge continues to stand as a testament to Kolkata's enduring spirit and commitment to infrastructure safety.