Will the Shastri Bridge lane in Ahmedabad be closed for inspection?
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Synopsis
A major lane of the Shastri Bridge in Ahmedabad will undergo a crucial 10-day structural inspection starting September 1. Travelers must prepare for diversions and potential delays during this period. This inspection comes in the wake of past deterioration issues, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure safety.
Key Takeaways
- Shastri Bridge lane closure for inspection from September 1 to 10.
- Traffic will be redirected to a parallel bridge.
- Heavy vehicles are prohibited on the affected lane.
- Inspection emphasizes infrastructure safety following past incidents.
- Commuters urged to plan ahead to avoid delays.
Ahmedabad, Aug 31 (NationPress) A significant lane of the historic Shastri Bridge in Ahmedabad, which links Pirana Junction to Vishala Junction, will be entirely closed to traffic for a duration of 10 days in September for a comprehensive structural inspection, according to a police announcement made on Sunday.
As per the official notice from the Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) N.N. Chaudhari, the closure will impact the left-side lane from Pirana Junction towards Vishala Junction between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day, from September 1 to 10 this year.
The inspection, overseen by the Executive Engineer of the National Highway Division, necessitates the use of heavy machinery, which makes this temporary shutdown essential.
This action follows a previous restriction placed on August 8, 2025, after signs of deterioration were found in multiple bearings and pedestals of the bridge.
Currently, both heavy and medium-sized vehicles are prohibited from utilizing this lane.
During the inspection phase, traffic directed towards Vishala Junction will be rerouted to the adjacent bridge, which usually accommodates vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.
Authorities have urged travelers to account for the detour and adjust their plans to prevent traffic congestion and delays.
One of the most catastrophic bridge collapse incidents in Gujarat transpired on October 30, 2022, when the Morbi suspension bridge over the Machchhu river unexpectedly collapsed, sending hundreds of individuals into the river below.
That bridge, which had been recently renovated and reopened just days prior to the disaster, was filled with festive attendees celebrating Chhath Puja.
The collapse resulted in the loss of over 135 lives, including numerous women and children, marking one of the gravest civic tragedies in Gujarat’s recent history.
The state government, along with municipal agencies, mandates routine inspections and maintenance, with engineers conducting periodic structural audits to evaluate load-bearing capacity, corrosion, and wear-and-tear. However, reports frequently indicate delays in repairs and failures in timely monitoring.
While modern bridges on expressways and industrial zones are typically constructed with advanced engineering standards, older bridges in smaller towns and rural locales face greater risks due to aging infrastructure, overloading, and insufficient maintenance, making ongoing inspections and public accountability vital for long-term safety.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of infrastructure safety. The upcoming inspection of the Shastri Bridge is a proactive measure in response to previous concerns about deterioration. Such actions reflect our commitment to public safety and the importance of maintaining accountability in infrastructure management.
NationPress
31/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Shastri Bridge lane being closed?
The lane is being closed for a detailed structural inspection due to prior detected deterioration in the bridge's components.
How long will the lane remain closed?
The lane will be closed for 10 days, from September 1 to September 10, daily between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
What should commuters do during the closure?
Commuters should plan alternative routes using the parallel bridge to avoid delays and traffic congestion.
