Prayagraj's Aging Railway Bridge Set for Major Replacement
A railway over bridge in Prayagraj, standing for about sixty years, will soon face demolition. Authorities plan to construct a new structure in its place. This development promises significant relief for daily commuters in the city.
Bridge Declared Structurally Unsafe
The existing bridge sits in front of the High Court water tank. It serves as a crucial connection between the old and new parts of Prayagraj. In 2024, a joint inspection by PWD and Setu Nigam teams revealed severe damage to the bridge's girders and slabs.
Following this inspection, the Public Works Department declared the bridge structurally unsafe. Officials immediately stopped all four-wheeler traffic on the bridge. The structure is approximately 550 meters long. It previously handled an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 vehicles every single day.
New Bridge Construction Details
Setu Nigam officials confirmed the new railway over bridge will cost around Rs 52 crore. Project manager Rohit Mishra provided a timeline for the work. He stated the proposal went to the state government in May 2025.
"We expect an order within two months," Mishra said. "If everything proceeds according to plan, construction will start by June. We aim to complete the entire project within two years."
Traffic Management and Kumbh Mela Preparations
Currently, traffic uses a newer railway over bridge built adjacent to the old one in 2018. This arrangement will continue during the construction period. Authorities emphasized the urgent need for the new bridge's completion.
Prayagraj will host the Kumbh Mela in 2031. Officials stressed the importance of finishing the new infrastructure well before this major event. The replacement bridge will ensure smooth traffic flow for the millions of expected visitors.
The demolition and reconstruction mark a significant infrastructure upgrade for Prayagraj. Residents and commuters await the improved connectivity the new bridge will provide.
