India’s second cable-stayed steel deck bridge is set to revolutionize transportation in the eastern city of Howrah, thanks to a collaborative effort between Eastern Railways and international construction company Wicon. The ambitious project aims to alleviate traffic congestion on the 75-year-old Howrah Bridge by constructing a modern, four-lane bridge spanning the GT Road route.
New Bridge to Ease Traffic Congestion
The proposed bridge, a 134-meter steel deck cable-stayed structure, will link Howrah Station with the iconic Howrah Bridge. This upgrade responds to the rising vehicular traffic strain on the existing bridge, leading to frequent traffic jams and delays. By connecting GT Road and Howrah Station, the new bridge will significantly reduce travel times for commuters.
Details of the New Bridge
The new bridge is a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Chandmari Bridge, which spans 60 meters and was constructed in 1933. The upgraded structure, designed by Taiwan-based company Wicon, will feature a four-lane design, providing ample space for commuters. SP Singla Construction Private Limited has been tasked with carrying out the construction.
Howrah Station Upgrade
Alongside the construction of the bridge, Howrah Station is undergoing significant improvements to manage increasing passenger traffic and enhance overall capacity. The extension of platforms 1, 7, 10, 11, 12, and 13 will enable longer, long-distance trains to ply on these routes. Additionally, platforms 15 and 24 are under construction and are expected to be ready by March 2025.
Modernizing India’s Rail Network
The upgrade project also includes a major overhaul of Howrah Station’s signaling system. The old system will be replaced with a modern electronic interlocking system, ensuring smoother operations, reducing potential delays, and improving overall safety. This upgrade will improve the rail network’s efficiency and prepare it for the increasing volume of train traffic through Howrah.
Expected Timeline and Completion
The construction of the new cable-stayed bridge is expected to be completed by December 2025. Once operational, the bridge will greatly reduce traffic congestion on Howrah Bridge, resulting in faster and more efficient connectivity for commuters. The station improvements, including the new platforms and upgraded signaling system, will further contribute to a seamless and efficient experience for passengers traveling through Howrah Station.
