Popularly known as the Rabindra Setu, Howrah Bridge is an
engineering marvel and is counted amongst the busiest cantilever
bridge in the World. Observing a daily traffic of about 60,000
vehicles and innumerable pedestrians, Howrah bridge have equalled
its position to Sydney Harbor Bridge. But the later can never dream
of such a traffic. The bridge connects Kolkata and Howrah and is the
lifeline of the city. The best way to enjoy its stately beauty is to
view it from the middle of the river.
History :
Constructed in 1939 and the bridge was opened to traffic in 1943
which cost as estimated Rs.333 crores, built from 26,500 tons of
steel. It is a sort of 'Cantilever bridge'. In it cantilevers
project from piers and are connected by girders. Erected during
World War II to give Allied troops access to the Burmese front,
replacing an earlier pontoon bridge that opened to let river traffic
through.
Essentially, it had two portions. For the convenient plying of man
and traffic, the pool was connected as a whole. However, the bridge
was unfastened everyday, particularly during night for steamers,
boats and other aquatic vehicles to ply. From 19th August, 1879, the
bridge was illuminated by fixing electric poles at the centre. This
was done by using the electricity rendered from the dynamo at the
Mallick Ghat Pumping Station. The Bridge was then 1528 ft. long and
62 ft. wide. On both sides were pavements 7 ft. wide for the sake of
pedestrians. The 48 ft. road in between, was for plying of traffic.
Today's Scenario :
The eight-lane bridge carries a steady flow of more than lakh
vehicles and 2 million commuters every day. The best way to enjoy
its stately beauty is to view it from the middle of the river where
photography is strictly prohibited. The ferries running from below
Howrah Station are a more convenient way to cross the river and give
a good view of the bridge.
Links :
The busy Rabindra Setu or Howrah Bridge connects the city to
Kolkata's Burrabazar. A second bridge - the Vidyasagar Setu connects
south Howrah to the Kolkata Maidan.
Near Howrah Bridge :
» Howrah Station
The Howrah Railway Station is one of the largest in the world with
rail connections to all major Indian cities and towns. Howrah
Station also serves as an important terminus for the suburban
railway services of the Eastern and the South Eastern Railway.
Located on the west side of the Hooghly River, it is linked to
Kolkata by the Howrah Bridge.
Other nearby attraction of Howrah Bridge :
From Howrah Bridge, you can visit its nearby attractions such as
Millenium Park, Eden Garden, Bara Bazar, BBD Bagh that will surely
make your visit to Howarah Bridge more memorable.
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