Kolkata's one of the oldest heritage infrustructure the Bascule Bridge, is set to undergo major modernisation in an effort to extend its working life. The upgradation is going to be implemented by the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Kolkata (SMPK), in collaboration with the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited at a cost of ₹117.54 crore.
The project has also received ₹40 crore in funding from the centre under the Sagarmala Scheme. The work is scheduled for completion by May 2027 and aimed towards improved safety, reliability and faster port movement.
Key infrastructure upgrades
The modernisation part of the project includes a complete overhaul of the bridge’s electro-mechanical systems, responsible for controlling the opening and closing of the bridge leaves and are critical for daily port operations. The steel leaves of the bridge will also be reinforced to handle current-day traffic loads.
Both upgrades combined are expected to improve operational speed while prolonging the infrastructure's operational lifespan. Despite the modernisation efforts, the core structure of the heritage bridge will remain the same, preserving the bridge’s original design.
Chairperson of SMPK, Rathendra Raman stated, “We are not just preserving a historic landmark but actively enhancing the safety and speed of port operations,” according to an Indian Express report.
A bridge built for movement and trade
Located at the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the Bascule Bridge serves the industrial docklands of Kolkata. Constructed back in 1966, it is Kolkata's only double-leaf rolling bascule bridge. Originally constructed by Waagner-Biro, the bridge required around 1,640 tonnes of steel for its construction.
The Bascule Bridge has long remained a hidden structure tucked within Kolkata’s industrial zone. The city's only folding bridge was designed keeping both land and water transport in mind. The bridge contains two separate movable leaves that lift together, allowing ships and other water vessels to pass through. When the leaves are lowered, the structure functions as a regular bridge, making way for daily traffic on the land.
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The bridge acts as a key road link between Garden Reach, Metiabruz and central Kolkata. It also allows cargo vessels to pass between Kidderpore Dock-I and Kidderpore Dock-II. A rack and pinion system raises and lowers the bridge leaves to clear the waterway.
Looking Ahead
Once completed, the bridge will continue to look much the same as it has for decades. The changes will mostly remain beneath the surface. With upgraded systems and a strengthened structure, the Bascule Bridge is set to remain a functional part of Kolkata’s port and transport network for years to come.
