17/12/2024
1. Location:
• The bridge connects Howrah and Kolkata across the Hooghly River in West Bengal, India.
2. Construction:
• Built between 1936 and 1943 and opened to the public on February 3, 1943.
• It was constructed without using nuts and bolts; instead, it is a riveted cantilever bridge.
3. Official Name: In 1965, it was officially renamed Rabindra Setu after Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, though it is still commonly known as Howrah Bridge.
4. Engineering Feat:
• It is one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world.
• Length: 705 meters (2,313 feet).
• Width: 71 feet, with a central span of 1,500 feet.
5. Traffic:
• The bridge handles over 100,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians daily, making it one of the busiest bridges in India.
• No trams or heavy vehicles are allowed on the bridge to maintain its structural integrity.
6. Materials Used:
• The steel used for its construction was supplied by Tata Steel.
• The total weight of the bridge is approximately 26,500 tonnes.
7. Unique Design:
• The bridge does not have piers in the middle of the river, ensuring uninterrupted movement of river traffic.
• It was built to withstand storms and cyclones, which are frequent in the region.
8. Cultural Significance:
• It is an iconic landmark of Kolkata and has been featured in many Bollywood movies, literature, and artwork.
• It symbolizes the heritage and daily life of the city.
9. Lighting: The bridge is illuminated with decorative lights at night, enhancing its beauty and making it a popular attraction.
10. Maintenance:
• Due to heavy traffic and environmental factors, regular maintenance is carried out.
• A significant issue is corrosion caused by bird droppings and pollution.
The Howrah Bridge is not just an architectural marvel but also a lifeline and a symbol of Kolkata’s rich history.
