The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has unveiled a major infrastructure blueprint aimed at not just repairing but significantly expanding the crucial Subhash Bridge over the Sabarmati River. The comprehensive plan, announced on Friday, December 27, 2025, involves the restoration of the existing 52-year-old structure and the construction of new two-lane bridges on both its sides, with a total estimated cost of Rs 250 crore.
A Decision Driven by Safety and Future Demand
The move comes after the bridge was abruptly closed to traffic on December 4, 2025, when cracks were spotted in its deck slab, accompanied by settlement in the superstructure. Following detailed inspections by empanelled consultants and experts from IIT Roorkee and SVNIT Surat, it was concluded that the superstructure needed to be dismantled. Municipal Commissioner Banchhanidhi Pani stated that the project was designed considering structural safety, future traffic demand, and long-term usability.
Initially, it was decided to only restore the bridge. However, Pani explained that the plan was expanded. "Taking into account the increasing traffic demand in the city, AMC has decided not to limit the project to restoration alone, but to also construct additional new bridges on both sides of the existing bridge," he said during a press briefing. The tender for the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) model project will be floated on Monday.
Two-Phased Execution for Minimal Disruption
The ambitious project will be executed in two distinct phases to ensure systematic progress.
Phase 1: Restoration of the Existing Bridge
In the first phase, the focus will be on the existing Subhash Bridge, constructed in 1973. Since the damage was confined to the superstructures and not the pillars, the old superstructure will be completely removed. It will be replaced with a new one using 38-metre spans with steel composite girders. The existing piers will be strengthened and restored using micro-concrete jacketing to support the new load. This restoration work is estimated to cost Rs 110 crore and is expected to be completed within nine months.
Phase 2: Construction of New Two-Lane Bridges
The second phase will see the construction of completely new two-lane bridges on both the northern and southern sides of the restored bridge, built at the same level. This involves fresh construction from the foundation up. The construction of these two new bridges is anticipated to take approximately two years.
Long-Term Impact on Ahmedabad's Connectivity
Once fully completed, the revitalized Subhash Bridge corridor will transform into a six-lane vital artery. It is expected to drastically reduce traffic congestion between the northern and central parts of Ahmedabad, particularly improving connectivity for areas like Ranip and Shahibaug. The bridge is a critical link near the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport.
The AMC's proactive approach, shifting from mere repair to a capacity-enhancing expansion, aims to create an iconic piece of infrastructure ready to handle the city's growth for decades to come. The single combined tender for both phases underscores the corporation's intent for a seamless and coordinated execution of this vital public project.
