Bajrang Setu | 11 Nov 2025

Why in News?

The Uttarakhand Government is building the Bajrang Setu in Rishikesh to replace the historic Lakshman Jhula. The new bridge is designed for greater safety, better traffic flow, and a major boost to tourism.

Key Points

• Bajrang Setu:
  • It will be India’s first cable suspension bridge with glass walkways over a river.
  • The structure is three-laned, featuring a central steel deck for two-wheelers and separate, wide glass walkways for pedestrians on both sides. Its entrance towers are reportedly inspired by the sacred Kedarnath Temple.
• Lakshman Jhula:
  • It is a famous suspension bridge over the Ganga that connected the Tapovan area (Tehri Garhwal) with Jonk (Pauri Garhwal).
  • It was completed in 1929 and named after Lord Lakshman. The bridge stands at the site where, according to Hindu legend, Lakshman once crossed the Ganga using a makeshift bridge of jute ropes.
    The bridge was closed to all traffic in 2019 due to severe structural deterioration and safety risks.