Kolkata’s iconic Vidyasagar Setu has reopened to traffic following a prolonged closure for critical steel repair and rehabilitation works. The suspension bridge, a vital connector over the Hooghly River, was shut for more than 17 hours to facilitate essential maintenance before being reopened.
The repair operation involved highly technical procedures aimed at strengthening the structure and ensuring long-term stability. Engineers replaced two bridge bearings and undertook precision jacking of the bridge deck to facilitate the installation of new steel portal beams. These interventions formed part of a broader plan to integrate the bridge with the six-lane elevated corridor of the Kona Expressway, a crucial route that manages significant vehicular flow into Kolkata and adjoining industrial hubs.
Despite the extended closure, traffic movement across the city was managed effectively. Authorities implemented diversions and issued advance alerts to commuters, thereby minimising disruption. While some congestion was reported in key areas, the management strategy helped maintain overall traffic discipline during the repair schedule.
Officials have confirmed that further work remains on the bridge cables, which will be undertaken over upcoming weekends. These operations may require partial closures, and commuters have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly.
The Vidyasagar Setu, also known as the Second Hooghly Bridge, is not only a landmark in Kolkata’s skyline but also a lifeline for thousands of daily commuters. Regular maintenance and steel strengthening activities have become essential to ensure the safety and durability of the structure, given its age and the immense traffic load it handles.
With the latest round of repairs completed, the bridge is once again fully operational, reaffirming its role as a critical artery in Kolkata’s transport network.
