For the first time in its illustrious 81-year history, Kolkata’s iconic Howrah Bridge, officially known as Rabindra Setu, was closed to vehicular traffic for a health check-up. The closure, which began at 11:30 PM on Saturday and lasted until 4:30 AM on Sunday, marks a significant moment for the city’s engineering marvel.
The inspection, carried out by the Shyama Prasad Mookerjee Port (Kolkata Port Trust), is the first comprehensive audit of the bridge since 1983. The Rail India Technical and Economic Service (RITES), a specialist agency, has been tasked with the structural study, including necessary internal repairs. This health scan follows a 2023 initiative to reduce the bridge’s load by scraping its bituminous layer.
Constructed in 1943, the steel cantilever bridge spans the Hooghly River, connecting Kolkata with its twin city, Howrah. Made of 26,500 tonnes of high-tensile steel primarily supplied by Tata Steel, the bridge measures 705 meters in length and 71 feet in width, featuring 15-foot-wide footpaths on both sides. Carrying approximately 1,00,000 vehicles and 1,50,000 pedestrians daily, it holds the distinction of being the world’s busiest cantilever bridge.
To minimize inconvenience during the overnight closure, traffic was redirected to alternate routes. Vehicles bound for Kolkata were rerouted via Vidyasagar Setu, while those heading north Kolkata from south and west Howrah were directed to Nibedita Setu (Bally Bridge).
A senior RITES official noted that the closure was essential for accessing internal areas requiring repairs. The results of this inspection will determine future maintenance strategies for preserving this vital connector and heritage structure.
The Howrah Bridge, a symbol of Kolkata’s cultural and architectural legacy, continues to stand resilient as it undergoes this critical health assessment.
