A historic bridge built in 1941 over a nala connecting Old Hubballi and New Hubballi may soon be replaced as part of a road-widening project. Constructed during the Hubli Borough period, the bridge was widened on both sides by 7.5 feet in 1941 and has since served as a crucial link between the two parts of the city. For decades, it has been used daily by traders, commuters, and public transport, becoming integral to Hubballi's growth.
Historical significance
Before the bridge was built, residents of Old Hubballi, then known as Hubli, faced difficulties reaching commercial areas in New Hubballi, such as Saraf Katta and Durgadbail. With no proper crossing over the nala, traders and shopkeepers had to walk long distances. Although water flowed through the nala mainly during heavy rains due to Unkal Lake overflow, the lack of a bridge made movement slow and inconvenient.
According to the inauguration stone, the bridge was constructed in 1941 under Hubli Borough administrator Rao Saheb PL Benni. Former mayor Pandurang Patil told TOI that the bridge brought a major transformation. Once operational, both pedestrians and vehicles began using it, greatly improving connectivity between Old and New Hubballi. He said it was the first such link and strengthened ties between the areas.
Current condition and widening plans
Despite its age and narrow width, the bridge continues to carry hundreds of vehicles daily, including buses. However, rising traffic and infrastructure needs have prompted plans to widen the 1.4-kilometre stretch from New English School Circle to Old Hubballi Durgadbail. The existing 12-metre road is proposed to be expanded to 18 metres.
Sources in the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) said the old bridge is likely to be replaced under the project, potentially ending the service of a structure that has stood for over eight decades. Superintending engineer R Vijay Kumar said land acquisition for widening would require around Rs 9.3 crore in compensation, apart from construction costs, and plans are being prepared.
Preservation calls
Former minister AM Hindasgeri, 87, said the bridge played a key role in developing New Hubballi and should be preserved during widening. HDMC ward 71 corporator Najeer Honyal said widening is necessary due to heavy traffic and pedestrian movement, but urged authorities to retain and strengthen the bridge instead of demolishing it while expanding the road alongside.
