The Hatkeshwar Bridge in Ahmedabad is set to be demolished after being closed for over 1,500 days. Built in 2017 for ₹40 crore, the bridge suffered serious structural issues shortly after its opening. Despite multiple repair attempts, the bridge was deemed unsafe for use just months after its inauguration.
Now, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is taking action. They have selected Shree Ganesh Corporation, a Mumbai-based company, to handle the demolition. This company submitted the lowest bid, which was below the municipal estimate of ₹9.31 crore.
Experts from IIT Roorkee and other institutions previously recommended that the bridge be completely demolished and rebuilt. The AMC has previously attempted to find contractors for this work, but the process faced delays due to various reasons, including political interference. One contractor had proposed a rebuild for ₹113 crore, but that tender was cancelled.
The Hatkeshwar Bridge was meant to connect Khokhra and CTM crossroads. However, its construction was plagued with problems. Lab tests revealed that the concrete used was of poor quality, leading to safety concerns. The AMC suspended several officials and filed a police report against the original contractors for alleged fraud and conspiracy.
The decision to demolish the bridge comes amid ongoing criticism from local residents and opposition parties. They have raised concerns about the future of the bridge and whether there are plans for its reconstruction. Shehzad Khan Pathan, the Leader of the Opposition in the AMC, expressed worries about the lack of communication from the AMC regarding rebuilding efforts.
Local commuters have faced ongoing difficulties due to the bridge’s closure. The Hatkeshwar Bridge was supposed to provide essential connectivity in the area, but its prolonged absence has caused significant disruption. The AMC is now focused on moving forward with the demolition to enable a new construction project.
After the bridge is demolished, plans for its reconstruction will need to be clearly communicated and executed efficiently. Local residents are hopeful that this new chapter will lead to a safer and more reliable structure that will improve transport in the area. As the demolition process begins, many are watching closely to see how the AMC will handle the reconstruction and ensure that similar mistakes are not repeated in the future.
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