Ahmedabad is facing a shocking situation with the Hatkeshwar Bridge. Built at a cost of ₹42 crore in 2017, it will now be demolished for just ₹3.9 crore after only eight years. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) Standing Committee has approved the demolition tender. The bridge has been closed to traffic since 2022 due to safety issues. The contract went to Shree Ganesh Construction Company, and demolition is expected to start after the monsoon season.
The bridge was inaugurated on 30 November 2017 after construction began in 2015. However, problems arose quickly. In early 2021, the bridge had to close due to potholes. Despite multiple repairs, by August 2022, it was declared unsafe for vehicles. This was after tests showed serious deterioration, especially in six central spans.
For three years, the AMC tried to find a company to demolish the bridge. Delays led to protests from local residents and shopkeepers demanding action. Now, with the tender approved, the AMC has a plan to ensure traffic is minimally disrupted during the six-month demolition process.
Chairman of the AMC Standing Committee, Devang Dani, confirmed the decision. However, he mentioned that no plans have been made for a new bridge yet. The situation has raised questions about the quality of construction and oversight.
Inquiries into the reasons behind the bridge’s rapid decline are ongoing. The original builder, Ajay Infra Company, faced criticism for the poor quality of work. The AMC has also faced scrutiny for its handling of the bridge’s safety. Four AMC officers were suspended following the investigation of the bridge’s failure.
The Hatkeshwar Bridge is not the only structure facing issues in Ahmedabad. A similar bridge in Vadodara collapsed, highlighting the urgent need for better infrastructure management. Residents are concerned about safety as they use other bridges in the city.
As the demolition date approaches, it remains unclear how long the residents will have to wait for a new bridge. The AMC’s ability to act quickly and efficiently on this matter is crucial for public safety and trust in local governance. The Hatkeshwar Bridge case serves as a reminder of the importance of quality in public infrastructure projects. Citizens are watching closely as the situation develops, hoping for a swift resolution and safer future crossings.
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