Howrah Bridge: Icon of Kolkata
One of Kolkata’s most popular and historic landmarks is the Howrah Bridge, which connects two parts of the city magically. North of the Hooghly River, a majestic structure stands, seamlessly blending the tales of yesteryear with the vibrancy of today. The Howrah Bridge, a enduring Kolkata landmark, crucially links the city to Howrah. This iconic structure serves as a symbol, bridging not just geographical gaps but also celebrating the vibrant history and culture. In this blog post, we discuss the fascinating history, architectural wonders, and cultural significance of the Howrah Bridge.
Historical Perspective:
The Howrah Bridge originated in the late 20th century when the need for robust transport across the Hooghly River became apparent. The existing Pontoon bridge (old Howrah Bridge) was inadequate to handle the growing traffic between Kolkata and Howrah. In pursuit of engineering excellence, the British colonial government initiated the construction of a cantilever bridge. By 1943, the Howrah Bridge stood as a testament to their ingenuity. The name was changed to Rabindra Setu in 1965 in honor of the Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore.
Location:
Situated strategically in the heart of the city, it serves as a vital link between the bustling metropolis of Kolkata and the vibrant suburb of Howrah.
Architectural Perspective:
The Howrah Bridge is an engineering marvel, designed by M/s. Rendell, Palmer, and Tritton and built by the renowned M/s. Cleveland Bridge and Engineering Company. Its uniqueness lies in its special cantilevered structure and no nuts or bolts were used during its construction! The entire bridge is held together by rivets, demonstrating how precise and skilled the engineers of the time were.
Total length: 705 m (2,313.0 ft)
Width: 71 ft (21.6 m) with two footpaths of 15 ft (4.6 m) on either side
Height: 82 m (269.0 ft)
Longest Span: 1,500 ft (457.2 m)
Steel used: 26,000 tons
Daily Traffic: The Howrah Bridge witnesses a daily passage of nearly 100,000 vehicles and more than 150,000 pedestrians.
Total cost of construction: Rs. 3.33 crores
Cultural Significance of the Bridge:
Beyond its architecture, Howrah Bridge has immense cultural aspects for the people of Kolkata. It is not just a steel structure, but a living witness of the city’s transformation. As the sun sets, the Bridge becomes an illuminated image, establishing the vibrancy of the city. The nightly light show, combined with the sounds of street life, creates an atmosphere that evokes both charm and nostalgia.
The bridge is an iconic part of Kolkata, featuring prominently in literature, film, and popular culture. It serves as the backdrop for numerous movies based on the essence of the city and its people. Moreover, the Howrah Bridge has become a meeting point for locals and an attraction for tourists, offering spectacular views of the river and city skyline.
Management of the Bridge:
The management of the Bridge involves the following entities:
Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT): Kolkata Port Trust (a statutory body under the Ministry of Shipping) oversees the overall administration of the bridge and is responsible for its maintenance, operation, and revenue generation through toll collection.
Eastern Railway: Eastern Railway, a vital part of Indian Railways, manages train schedules, and safety measures, and collaborates with KoPT to address any bridge-related issues that might impact rail traffic, contributing to the synchronized functioning of both road and rail components.
Public Works Department (PWD): The PWD ensures smooth access to the bridge and maintains the connecting roads in good condition.
Bridge Commissioners: A specialized team of Bridge Commissioners, appointed by the Ministry of Shipping, conducts regular inspections to assess the structural integrity of the bridge. Their expertise guides recommendations for necessary repairs or upgrades, playing a crucial role in ensuring the long-term stability of the Howrah Bridge.
Additional Support: Throughout its history, the Howrah Bridge has undergone various renovations and safety assessments, involving partnerships with esteemed engineering firms, consultants, and contractors. These collaborations are tailored to meet specific requirements, reflecting the commitment to the continual improvement and preservation of this iconic landmark.
At a glance of the Bridge:
1874: Inauguration of the initial Howrah Bridge, a pontoon bridge, facilitated the connection between Howrah and Kolkata.
1884: Devastating cyclone damage prompts the realization for a sturdier permanent structure.
1892: The Calcutta Port Trust introduces plans for a new bridge, initiating a planning and design phase spanning over two decades.
1914: Commencement of construction on the contemporary Howrah Bridge, designed by a British firm with valuable input from renowned engineer F.W. Webb.
1943: The bridge opens its lanes to traffic, celebrated as an engineering marvel and a symbolic representation of India’s progress.
1965: Renamed Rabindra Setu in honor of Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel Prize in Literature laureate.
1977: Implementation of the first significant repairs and maintenance initiatives on the bridge.
2004: The bridge undergoes a transformative makeover with the introduction of vibrant LED lights, turning it into a mesmerizing spectacle after sunset.
2017: A comprehensive safety assessment and refurbishment project marks a significant chapter in the ongoing history of the Howrah Bridge.
Watch the video on Howrah Bridge:
The Howrah Bridge stands as a testament to the resilience of Kolkata which connecting its past with the present. In addition, the bridge embodying the spirit of a city that has withstood the test of time. As a symbol of architectural brilliance and cultural significance, the Bridge continues to be a source of pride for the people of Kolkata, reminding us that bridges are not just physical structures but also they are bridges between history, culture, and the future. The Howrah Bridge is one of the most popular tourist places in Kolkata, India.
If you are interested, read this post: Padma Bridge: Bridging Bangladesh
