The Public Works Department (PWD) has announced plans to install a height barrier on the Bailey bridge located on Delhi’s Ring Road. The move comes as part of safety upgrades to the temporary structure, which has been in place far longer than initially intended due to delays in constructing a permanent foot overbridge.
The Bailey bridge, a prefabricated steel structure, was installed as an interim measure to facilitate safe pedestrian and light vehicular movement in a congested corridor. However, reports of heavy vehicles attempting to use the bridge have raised concerns about potential structural risks. The proposed height barrier aims to restrict access for oversized vehicles and preserve the integrity of the bridge until a permanent replacement is built.
Authorities have acknowledged that the construction of a permanent foot overbridge has been repeatedly pushed back due to planning and coordination challenges. In the meantime, the Bailey bridge continues to play a crucial role in easing movement across one of the busiest stretches of the Ring Road. The addition of the barrier is therefore considered a necessary step to prevent accidents and extend the lifespan of the temporary facility.
From an industry perspective, the use of Bailey bridges highlights the importance of prefabricated steel solutions in urban infrastructure. Their modular nature allows for quick deployment, making them valuable in both emergency situations and planned temporary diversions. However, reliance on such structures beyond their intended lifespan raises questions about maintenance standards and long-term planning.
By installing the height barrier, the PWD is seeking to balance immediate safety needs with longer-term development goals. Yet, the episode underlines the urgency of delivering permanent infrastructure solutions that can handle the growing demands of the capital’s rapidly expanding traffic.
