Gujarat is home to the Golden Bridge Bharuch, often referred to as the Narmada Bridge. The British constructed it in 1881 to link Ankleshwar and Bharuch, two significant cities in the state, and to facilitate trade and travel between Mumbai and Gujarat. The Narmada River, which the bridge crosses, inspired its name. The bridge has come to represent Gujarat’s rich history and culture over time.
Source: Wikipedia
Golden Bridge Bharuch: Construction
On December 7, 1877, the Bombay, Baroda, and Central India Railway signed a contract to start building the Golden Bridge. It was created by renowned British architect Sir John Hawkshaw. However, the construction procedure proved challenging due to the Narmada River’s tendency for severe floods. During construction, the bridge encountered several obstacles and was demolished several times.
Despite the difficulties, Sir Hawkshaw revised the bridge’s design and picked up work on it again in December 1877. In May 1881, the bridge was eventually finished for a cost of Rs 45.65 lakhs. Due to the high cost incurred during construction, the bridge’s original name, the Narmada Bridge, was changed to the more prestigious one, the Golden Bridge.
The Golden Bridge through the years
The Golden Bridge significantly increased trade and commerce by linking Mumbai to Gujarat and beyond. Up until a new bridge was completed over the Narmada River, it was a significant railway bridge. After then, the Golden Bridge was transformed into a road bridge, carrying more than 100,000 people daily in both directions and accommodating about 10,000 automobiles.
As the British government considered demolishing and selling the bridge’s iron to pay for the astronomical war costs during World Wars I and II, the Golden Bridge nearly perished. Both times, though, public pressure prevented the bridge from falling.
Gujarat’s Golden Bridge is a historic site and a popular tourist destination nowadays. Although standing for more than 140 years, it has not rusted even slightly. It is evidence of the bridge’s flexible structure and the talent of the engineers and designers who worked on its design.
Golden Bridge Bharuch: The bridge and Gujarat’s cultural heritage
The Golden Bridge is a significant piece of Gujarat’s cultural legacy and a tribute to the British engineering prowess and their influence on India’s infrastructure. The bridge has served as a representation of Gujarat’s resilience and ability to endure over time.
The Golden Bridge is a significant aspect of Indian pop culture because it has appeared in several films and television programs. Films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Kai Po Che have portrayed its gorgeous architecture and rich history.
FAQs
What is the Golden Bridge of the Bharuch?
The Golden Bridge of Bharuch is a historic bridge that spans the Narmada River in the Indian state of Gujarat. It was built by the British in 1881 to improve access to trade and administration officials in Bombay.
Why is it called the Golden Bridge?
The bridge was originally called the Narmada Bridge but came to be known as the Golden Bridge due to the heavy expenditure incurred during construction.
Who designed the Golden Bridge?
The Golden Bridge was designed by Sir John Hawkshaw, a renowned British architect and civil engineer.
How long is the Golden Bridge?
The Golden Bridge is 1,412 meters (4,633 ft) long.
Is the Golden Bridge still in use?
Yes, the Golden Bridge is still in use as a two-lane road bridge, serving around 10,000 vehicles and transporting over 100,000 people daily in both directions.
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