In a startling development, the Subhash Bridge in Ahmedabad has been shut down for traffic after significant cracks and structural settlement were discovered, despite being categorised as 'Good' in a recent civic inspection. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has closed the vital bridge for an estimated six months to conduct urgent repairs and extensive testing.
From 'Good' Grade to Sudden Closure
The incident raises serious questions about inspection protocols. Earlier this year, before the monsoon, the AMC had conducted a visual inspection of the 50-year-old Subhash Bridge and placed it in the 'Good' category. According to a 2023 government directive, bridges ranked 'Excellent' or 'Good' do not require further testing. Only structures in 'Fair', 'Poor', or 'Critical' categories are advised for tests.
This assessment was dramatically contradicted on Thursday. Around 4:30 PM, during an AMC standing committee meeting, officials received a complaint about a crack on the bridge. A team rushed to the site and observed not just a crack but also the settlement of the span above Pillar No. 9 on the bridge's left side. By 6 PM, the bridge was closed to all motorists.
Extensive Testing Ordered for All Slabs
Given the severity of the visible damage, officials suspect other sections may be compromised. The AMC has decided to conduct over five different tests on all six slabs of the 453.7-metre-long and 12.8-metre-wide bridge. The battery of tests will include advanced methods like the Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity (UPV) test, which assesses concrete quality by measuring the speed of sound waves through it, and the concrete core test.
An AMC official, speaking anonymously, explained the process: "The civic body appoints consultants for the inspection of all bridges in the city. These consultants submit detailed reports to us. A visual inspection is conducted for every bridge, which gives a clear status of its condition." The official added that the reason for the settlement in a 'Good'-category bridge will be determined, followed by a decision on the necessary repairs.
Potential for Demolition and Rebuilding
The future of the bridge, constructed in 1973, hangs in the balance pending the test results. The official did not rule out the possibility that the damaged slabs might require complete demolition and rebuilding. "However, the final decision will be taken after all test results are in and the consultants weigh in," the official stated.
This incident highlights the critical need for robust and perhaps more technologically advanced bridge inspection mechanisms in urban infrastructure management. The closure of Subhash Bridge, a key traffic artery, is expected to cause significant inconvenience to Ahmedabad's commuters for the foreseeable future.
