West Bengal
Renovation of Kolkata’s Historic Bascule Bridge Approved
- 12 Mar 2026
- 2 min read
Why in News?
On 10th March, 2026, the Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways approved a major renovation project for the historic Bascule Bridge at the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port.
Key Points:
- Aim: The project aims to balance the preservation of maritime heritage with the modernization of critical port infrastructure.
- Financial Outlay: The estimated cost of the project is ₹117.54 crore.
- Funding Mechanism: The project will receive financial assistance of approximately ₹41 crore under the Sagarmala Programme, India's flagship initiative for port-led development.
- Implementation Agency: The renovation will be carried out by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL).
- Timeline: Modernization work is expected to be completed by May 2027.
- Heritage Status: Constructed in 1966 by the Austrian firm Waagner-Biro Bridge Systems AG, the bridge is nearly six decades old.
- Engineering Design: It is a unique double-leaf rolling bridge. The "leaves" swing upwards to allow large cargo ships to pass between Kidderpore Dock-I and Dock-II, then lock back down to facilitate road traffic.
- Strategic Role: It serves as a vital artery for vehicular and cargo movement, connecting the Garden Reach and Metiabruz regions with the rest of Kolkata.
| Read More: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Sagarmala Programme |
