New Delhi (Agency): The renowned Ram Jhula suspension bridge in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, faced an unexpected challenge on Thursday when soil erosion beyond its abutments led to its closure for two-wheelers. The soil erosion was caused by the swelling Ganga river, which has been affected by a recent spell of heavy rains in the region.
Initially, the bridge was closed entirely, but after a careful examination conducted by Public Works Department (PWD) officials, it was decided to restrict the closure to two-wheelers only. Muni ki Reti police station SHO Ritesh Shah explained, “The decision was taken for safety reasons as allowing two-wheelers to pass through the bridge could have been risky.”
The water level of the Ganga had crossed the danger mark in both Rishikesh and neighboring Haridwar on August 14. Torrential rains had pounded various parts of the state, including the hill districts of Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Pauri. The flooding of the Ganga led to soil erosion along the banks of the river, particularly under the bridge, beyond its abutments.
Built in 1985, the Ram Jhula bridge measures 220 meters in length and 2 meters in width. It runs parallel to the iconic British-era bridge Lakshman Jhula. The bridge is a vital link for the local population, and its closure, even if partial, is bound to affect the daily life of residents and pilgrims.
While the bridge is primarily meant for pedestrians, it is also commonly used by two-wheelers. This closure underscores the challenges that can arise due to natural calamities and the importance of infrastructure preparedness and maintenance.
The dependence on the bridge by people in the region is notably high, not just for daily commuting but also for pilgrims visiting the holy city of Rishikesh. The closure, though necessary for safety, may lead to inconveniences and require alternative arrangements.
This incident serves as a reminder of the fragile balance between human-made structures and nature. The soil erosion, triggered by the heavy rainfall, has brought attention to the need for regular monitoring and maintenance of such critical infrastructure, especially in regions prone to extreme weather conditions.
In the broader context, the heavy rains in Uttarakhand and the resulting impact on the Ganga river also draw attention to the climatic challenges faced by the region. Uttarakhand has witnessed several weather-related disasters in the past, and the present situation reflects the ongoing struggle with environmental factors.
As of now, the local authorities are focused on ensuring the safety of the residents and travelers who rely on the Ram Jhula bridge. The partial closure is a precautionary measure, but it also opens up a conversation on the resilience and sustainability of infrastructure in areas exposed to natural threats.
The situation at the Ram Jhula bridge is being closely monitored, and further decisions will likely depend on the developments related to the Ganga river’s water level and the condition of the bridge itself. While the immediate concern is safety, this incident may also lead to broader reflections on infrastructure planning and climate adaptation in the region.