Bhopal’s newly built Aishbagh Bridge, which drew widespread attention for its sharp 90-degree turn, is now set to be redesigned. Responding to growing public concern and media scrutiny, the Indian Railways has agreed to provide additional land to support the redesign efforts.
The 648-meter-long, 8.5-meter-wide bridge, constructed at a cost of Rs 18 crore, has faced backlash from residents and netizens alike. Many have raised safety concerns, warning that the abrupt turn could pose a serious risk and potentially lead to frequent accidents.
The media reports mentioned that once the railway transfers the required land, work will commence on the bridge’s redesign. A key change will involve dismantling the existing railing at the 90-degree turn, which has been identified as a major traffic choke point. On Wednesday, a measurement team was already on-site to assess the turn.
The new design aims to transform the sharp bend into a more gradual curve, effectively increasing the bridge’s width by approximately three feet. This additional space is expected to significantly improve vehicle flow, alleviate congestion, and enhance safety for commuters navigating one of Lucknow’s busiest areas.
Earlier, officials involved in the project had defended the original design, citing logistical constraints. VD Verma, Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department (Bridge Department), explained to PTI that “Due to the metro station, there is limited availability of land at the point. Due to the lack of land, there was no other option. The purpose of the RoB is to connect the two colonies.”
PWD Minister Rakesh Singh told India Today, “After a bridge is built, experts suddenly appear and say such things. A lot of technical aspects are taken into consideration while building any bridge. If this is an allegation, it will be investigated.”
(With PTI Inputs)