Akota Bridge, a significant landmark of Vadodara, Gujarat, connects the residential areas of Akota and Dandia Bazar. The unique feature of the bridge is the installation of solar panels, which makes it an eco-friendly structure.
Source: Pinterest
Akota Bridge: Construction and design
The Akota Bridge is a cantilever bridge constructed over the Vishwamitri River in Vadodara. It is made of reinforced concrete and has a length of 380 metre, a width of 22 metre and a height of 40 metre. The bridge is designed to carry both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. It has four lanes for vehicles and sidewalks for pedestrians.
Akota Bridge: Installation of solar panels
In 2012, Vadodara Municipal Corporation decided to install solar panels on the Akota Bridge to generate electricity. A total of 3,024 solar panels were installed on the bridge, covering an area of 8,300 square metres. The panels were placed at an angle of 12 to 18 degrees, facing northwest to receive sunlight at all times of the day.
Solar inverters
To convert the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC), 14 solar inverters of 70 kW have been installed on the Akota Bridge. The inverters were placed on the concrete foundation of the bridge.
Benefits of solar panels
The installation of solar panels on the Akota Bridge has several benefits. The solar panels generate approximately 1.2 MW of electricity, which is used to power street lights and other public amenities in Vadodara. The installation of solar panels has also reduced the carbon footprint of the city and has contributed to the reduction of air pollution.
Source: Pinterest
Akota Bridge: Maintenance
Vadodara Municipal Corporation is responsible for the maintenance of the Akota Bridge. The solar panels require regular cleaning to ensure maximum efficiency. The maintenance staff uses a water jet cleaning system to remove dust and debris from the panels.
Akota Bridge: How to reach?
By air: The Vadodara Airport is about 6.5 kilometre (km) away from Akota Bridge.
By rail: The Vadodara Junction is the nearest railway station, about 5.5 km from here.
By road: Akota Bridge is well-connected by road, and one can reach there by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from Vadodara city.
FAQs
Who owns and maintains the Akota Bridge?
The Akota Bridge is owned and maintained by the Vadodara Municipal Corporation.
What is unique about Akota Bridge?
Akota Bridge has solar panels installed on it, making it the first solar-powered bridge in India.
How many solar panels are installed on Akota Bridge?
A total of 3,024 solar panels are installed on the Akota Bridge.
What is the capacity of the solar inverters installed on Akota Bridge?
Fourteen solar inverters of 70 kW capacity are installed on the Akota Bridge.
Why were solar panels installed on Akota Bridge?
Akota Bridge has solar panels to encourage the use of green energy and lessen the city's carbon footprint.
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