In a significant move to manage the massive influx of devotees and tackle chronic traffic snarls, the Public Works Department (PWD) in Prayagraj is constructing two additional pontoon bridges over the Ganga river at Phaphamau. This initiative is part of the preparations for the upcoming Magh Mela and aims to provide a lasting solution to the area's connectivity woes.
Enhanced Connectivity for Pilgrims and Commuters
Originally, the pre-approved mela plan included the construction of seven pontoon bridges. The decision to add two more bridges underscores the administration's focus on ensuring smooth movement for the lakhs of expected visitors. The crucial difference is that these two new bridges will remain functional even after the Magh Mela concludes on February 15 with the Shivratri bath. While the seven mela-specific bridges will be dismantled within a month of the fair's end, the additional pair will serve the public until at least the end of May.
Race Against Time for Key Bathing Dates
The PWD's construction division-IV is working at full pace to meet a tight deadline. Officials have confirmed that concerted efforts are being made to complete both bridges by January 10. This timeline is critical as it precedes the major bathing festivals of Makar Sankranti on January 15 and Mauni Amavasya on January 18. Completing the bridges well in advance will allow for proper testing and ensure they are ready to handle the peak pilgrim traffic on these auspicious days.
A Temporary Lifeline for Phaphamau Bridge Traffic
The primary motivation behind this project is the persistent and severe traffic congestion on the Chandrashekhar Azad Setu, popularly known as the Phaphamau bridge. Commuters here regularly face long, frustrating jams. The two new pontoon bridges are designed to act as a crucial alternative route, diverting vehicles, especially those carrying devotees to the mela area, and easing pressure on the main bridge.
This temporary solution is strategically timed. The ongoing construction of a permanent six-lane bridge over the Ganga at Phaphamau is expected to be completed by May 2024. The pontoon bridges will, therefore, ensure uninterrupted traffic flow in the region during this interim period. Executive Engineer of construction division-IV, Surendra Singh, stated that a review will be conducted towards the end of May. This assessment will evaluate the flood situation in the Ganga, after which a final decision will be made regarding the further use or removal of the pontoon bridges.
In summary, the PWD's proactive measure addresses both an immediate need for the Magh Mela and a longer-term traffic problem. The two new pontoon bridges promise to facilitate a smoother pilgrimage experience for devotees and offer daily commuters a much-needed respite from gridlock until the grand, modern bridge is ready to open.
