The construction of a four-lane high-level bridge over the Swarnarekha River, connecting Litti Chowk in Bhuiyadih to Baliguma, has been stalled due to a critical design flaw. The delay has been further prolonged by the vacant position of Chief Engineer (Design) in the Road Construction Department, leaving the project in uncertainty.

The foundation stone for the bridge was laid on October 4, 2024, just before the implementation of the Lok Sabha election code of conduct. However, construction did not commence immediately. When work eventually began after the elections, a major flaw in the design was identified, leading to the cancellation of the initial plan. A revised design has been prepared, but its approval has been delayed due to the absence of a Chief Engineer, a post that has remained vacant since December 31, 2024, following the retirement of the previous officer.

With an estimated cost of Rs 440 million, the bridge is expected to significantly improve traffic flow in Jamshedpur. Once completed, it will provide direct access to NH-33, reducing congestion on existing routes such as Mango Bridge and Dobo Bridge. The new infrastructure will also enable the smooth movement of heavy vehicles from industrial units like Tata Steel, Tata Motors, Lafarge, Steel Strip Wheels, Timken, and TSDPL, minimising their impact on city roads.

The construction contract has been awarded to Satish Prasad Company of Ranchi, but work remains on hold pending official approval. Concerns have been raised about how such a major alignment issue was overlooked during the planning stage, resulting in delays to a crucial infrastructure project. The completion of the bridge now depends on the appointment of a new Chief Engineer and the subsequent approval of the revised design.

News source: Avenue Mail