Prayagraj's Vital Rail Overbridge to Close for Traffic from April 10
A significant rail overbridge (ROB) in Prayagraj, which serves as a key link between GT Road and the areas of Khusrobagh and Lukerganj, will be completely closed to all road traffic starting April 10. This closure is part of a major infrastructure project to replace the aging structure with a new bridge on the heavily used Howrah-Delhi rail route.
Structural Weakness Prompts Immediate Closure
According to Shashikant Tripathi, the chief public relations officer of the North Central Railway (NCR), the existing bridge located near Panni-Ki-Tanki has deteriorated and is now structurally weak. "The bridge will be dismantled, and road traffic will be fully halted from the notified date," Tripathi stated. He urged commuters to utilize alternative routes and adhere to traffic diversions that will be implemented by local police authorities.
Demolition and Construction Timeline Detailed
The demolition process for the 850-meter-long structure is scheduled to commence between May 15 and 20, with an estimated completion time of approximately two months. Following this, the construction of the new ROB is planned to start in May 2026, targeting completion by May 2028. This phased approach ensures minimal long-term disruption while upgrading the infrastructure.
Project Funding and Collaborative Effort
The reconstruction project will be a joint venture between the State Bridge Corporation and the North Central Railway, with a total budget of Rs 51 crore allocated for the new bridge. Additionally, Rs 50 lakh has been specifically earmarked for the dismantling of the old structure, highlighting the comprehensive planning involved.
Historical Context and Current Condition
Originally constructed by the public works department in 1962 and later transferred to the bridge corporation in 1969, this bridge has been in a state of disrepair for several years. Due to its poor condition, the movement of heavy vehicles had already been prohibited prior to this announcement, underscoring the urgency of the replacement.
Phased Reconstruction Strategy
Project manager Rohit Mishra explained that the reconstruction will be executed in phases, with demolition and new construction activities progressing simultaneously from the Lukerganj side. This method aims to streamline the process and reduce overall project duration. Once finished, the new ROB is expected to significantly enhance traffic flow and improve safety along this busy corridor, benefiting daily commuters and commercial transport alike.
The closure and subsequent reconstruction mark a critical step in modernizing Prayagraj's transportation network, addressing long-standing safety concerns while preparing for future traffic demands.
