Citing glittering examples of Chenab Bridge and the Bogibeel Bridge, Ruchi Verma makes out a case of India emerging as global leader in bridge construction. By providing easier access to picturesque regions and cultural attractions, these bridges have become conduits in boosting tourism and are attracting global footprint. Apart from bolstering local economy, they have also created employment opportunities in the hospitality and related sectors.
India’s emergence and excellence as a global leader in engineering excellence, particularly in the realm of bridge construction, is unquestionable. Two examples of India’s remarkable engineering feats are the Chenab Bridge in Kashmir and the Bogibeel Bridge in Assam. These awe-inspiring structures have not only captured the world’s attention but have also significantly transformed transportation, trade, and tourism in their respective regions in India.
The Chenab Bridge, celebrated as the world’s tallest rail bridge, epitomises India’s engineering excellence and innovative spirit. Soaring majestically 359 meters above the gushing Chenab River, this architectural wonder commands global admiration. Its imposing stature not only links remote corners of Kashmir but also proves India’s unwavering commitment to conquering infrastructure challenges in rugged landscapes.
Chenab River is very important to India. Apart from this bridge, it also has several hydro-electric projects such as Ratle Hydroelectric Project, Salal Hydroelectric Power Station, Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Plant, etc.
Standing tall amidst the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir, the Chenab Bridge is a marvel of modern engineering. Its towering height and intricate design have captivated visitors worldwide, showcasing India’s ability to undertake and accomplish monumental projects. The bridge’s sheer magnitude serves as a testament to the ingenuity and technical prowess of Indian engineers and construction teams.
The marvel
Beyond its structural grandeur, the Chenab Bridge plays a vital role in connecting isolated regions of Kashmir. Prior to its construction, these areas faced daunting geographical barriers, hindering access to essential services and economic opportunities. However, with the completion of the bridge, residents now enjoy improved connectivity, facilitating the flow of goods, services, and people across the region.
The Chenab Bridge represents India’s dedication to infrastructure development in challenging terrains. Its construction in the rugged valleys of Kashmir demonstrates India’s resolve to overcome geographical obstacles and expand connectivity to remote areas. The bridge epitomises India’s vision for inclusive development, ensuring that even the most isolated communities have access to vital resources and opportunities.
Made of steel and concrete, the Chenab Bridge is an arch bridge, taller than the famous Eiffel Tower. It runs between Bakkal and Kauri in the Reasi district of the Jammu part of Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory. The railway bridge forms a crucial link from Katra to Banihal. It is situated 1,178 feet above the riverbed and is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway Link (USBRL), a project worth INR 35,000 crore.
It is set to make commuting and transport of goods easier, boost tourism, and bring economic development to the region. The Chenab Bridge is 1,315-metre long and can withstand high wind speed up to 266 kmph. It is also designed to withstand earthquakes of India’s highest intensity zone-V. The bridge was fully completed and inaugurated in August 2022.
Connecting the east
Located on the eastern frontier, the Bogibeel Bridge stands out as India’s lengthiest rail-road bridge, extending over the formidable Brahmaputra River in the state of Assam. Spanning a remarkable distance of 4.94 kilometers, this bridge has revolutionised connectivity between the northern and southern banks of the Brahmaputra, facilitating smooth movement of goods and people throughout the region.
The construction of the Bogibeel Bridge has heralded a new era of transportation efficiency and economic growth in Assam and the north-eastern states. By bridging the Brahmaputra River, it has significantly reduced travel time for commuters and enhanced accessibility to remote areas, thereby fostering improved regional integration and development.
Furthermore, the Bogibeel Bridge has opened up new vistas for economic expansion and trade in Assam and neighbouring states. Its strategic location and enhanced connectivity have facilitated the smoother flow of goods and commodities, thereby boosting trade activities and economic exchanges in the region.
The bridge has catalysed the development of infrastructure and logistics networks, laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and prosperity in Assam and beyond. The combined road and rail bridge lies between Dhemaji district and Dibrugarh district.
The bridge is also India’s first to comprise fully-welded steel-concrete support beams that can withstand earthquakes of magnitudes up to seven on the Richter Scale. In December 2018, during a huge gathering at Kareng Chapori located on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the first passenger train passing through the Bogibeel Bridge.
Speaking at the public meeting, the Prime Minister recalled the time when in May 2017, he had dedicated to the nation India’s longest road bridge – the Bhupen Hazarika Bridge – at Sadia in Assam.
For the construction of this bridge, the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) supplied 35,400 metric tonnes of steel which is a little more than 50 per cent of the total steel supplied for its construction.
Sea of benefits
These bridge projects are not merely engineering marvels but also catalysts for economic growth and development. The Chenab Bridge and Bogibeel Bridge have enhanced transportation infrastructure, enabling faster and more efficient movement of goods and people across regions. This improved connectivity has bolstered trade and commerce, unlocking new opportunities for businesses and industries in remote areas.
With their impressive scale, innovative designs, and significant socio-economic impact, the Chenab Bridge and Bogibeel Bridge exemplify India’s commitment to infrastructure development and its emergence as a global leader in engineering excellence. As these bridges continue to garner international attention, they serve as shining examples of India’s potential to undertake and successfully execute ambitious infrastructure projects that benefit not only the nation but also the world at large.
The Chenab Bridge and Bogibeel Bridge have changed the lives of millions of residents in their respective regions in profound ways. In Kashmir, the Chenab Bridge has revolutionised connectivity in remote areas, providing residents with reliable transportation links to the rest of the country. This has facilitated the movement of people and goods, opening up new economic opportunities and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
Moreover, these bridges have spurred tourism by providing easier access to picturesque regions and cultural attractions. The Chenab Bridge, in particular, has become a sought-after travel destination, attracting visitors eager to witness its architectural grandeur and spectacular views. It is attracting visitors from around the world and the new influx of visitors has not only bolstered the local economy but has also created employment opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Similarly, in Assam, the Bogibeel Bridge has significantly improved connectivity in the north-eastern states, overcoming natural barriers posed by the Brahmaputra River. This has encouraged movement of goods and services leading to strengthening of local economy.
In addition to their monumental engineering achievements, the Chenab Bridge and Bogibeel Bridge have also had significant socio-economic impacts on their respective regions. With the completion of the Chenab Bridge, residents now have easier access to healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and markets in other parts of the country.
Similarly, the Bogibeel Bridge has had a transformative impact on the north-eastern region of India, particularly in Assam. People now have improved access to markets, healthcare, etc. which has created new avenues for trade and commerce as well. It is also attracting tourists from all over boosting the travel and tourism industry.