Howrah’s 120-year-old rail bridge shut to heavy vehicles, bus routes diverted amid collapse risk

The Bamungachhi railway overbridge in North Howrah, constructed nearly 120 years ago, has been declared unsafe for heavy vehicles. Authorities have enforced a complete ban on the movement of six-wheeler vehicles, including buses and trucks, due to the deteriorating condition of the bridge. The restriction has been implemented by Howrah City Police as a precautionary measure to avoid any accidents during the ongoing monsoon season. The ban will remain in effect until the construction of a new adjacent bridge is completed.

As a result of the restriction, several public transport routes have been affected. The Bhattanagar–Dharmatala mini bus and route 57A Kona–Howrah bus, among others, have been diverted away from the Belghachia crossing. Passengers commuting to or from Salakya, Dharmatala, Belghachia, and surrounding areas are now required to switch to alternate means of transport such as auto-rickshaws or travel on foot to reach their destinations. The waterlogging in parts of Banaras Road during the monsoon has added to the difficulties faced by daily commuters.

Railway sources confirmed that the Eastern Railway had earlier decided to dismantle the existing bridge due to its poor structural condition. In response, construction of a new bridge adjacent to the old one was initiated. The new bridge’s lower section, designed for train movement, has been extended from 36 metres to 66 metres to accommodate smoother rail traffic. The upper section, which will support road traffic, is in its final stages of completion.

Howrah Division’s Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Sanjeev Kumar, stated that there had been long-standing concern over the condition of the old bridge. He added that the construction of the new bridge was launched as a priority and is now nearing completion. An official inauguration is being planned once the entire structure is ready for public use.