Deteriorating Vishala Bridge In Ahmedabad Raises Alarm: Thousands Cross Daily Despite Visible Damage

Ahmedabad: The recent collapse of the Gambhira Bridge near Vadodara, which tragically claimed 15 lives, has sent shockwaves across Gujarat. The disaster has triggered serious concern among citizens who cross similarly aged or damaged bridges daily. One such structure raising red flags is the Shastri Bridge, popularly known as the Vishala Bridge, which connects the Vishala area to Narol in Ahmedabad.

A recent inspection revealed that the bridge is in a deteriorating state. Sections of the railing are broken, with steel bars visibly exposed. Cracks have appeared along the lower portions of the bridge, and the pedestrian pathway is damaged, making it hazardous for people walking across. When heavy vehicles pass over the bridge, it vibrates noticeably, raising further safety concerns.

Despite a round of repairs by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) just eight months ago, much of the work appears to be superficial. Only the central joints were addressed, while the railings, critical for pedestrian safety, were left untouched. In some parts of the bridge, structural gaps resembling cracks remain exposed, and certain joints still appear uneven.

Adding to the concerns, the bridge is part of a major infrastructure plan. A six-lane elevated corridor, costing over ₹1,200 crore, is under construction along the same stretch from Sarkhej to Narol. This new project includes a replacement bridge parallel to the current one. Once the elevated corridor becomes operational, the existing Shastri Bridge is expected to be demolished.

Until then, however, thousands of commuters continue to use this weakened bridge every day, unknowingly putting their lives at risk. The situation raises an urgent question , can we afford to wait until another tragedy forces action? Immediate and thorough inspection, maintenance, and safety audits are not just recommended, they are essential.

Also Read: Gujarat Government Forms Committee To Investigate Gambhira Bridge Collapse; Death Toll Rises To 14