Ahmedabad’s historic Ellis Bridge is being redeveloped into a pedestrian heritage walkway at an estimated cost of ₹42.9 crore, with renovation work underway to preserve its old steel structure while adding public amenities, according to a report by Sandesh.
The project will convert the historic bridge into a heritage destination and walking space for citizens. The report said the renovated structure is expected to be presented to Ahmedabad residents around the New Year, although it did not specify an exact opening date.
Built during the British era, Ellis Bridge is closely associated with Ahmedabad’s urban history. The current renovation is intended to retain the bridge’s heritage appearance while adapting it for public use as a dedicated promenade. The work includes engineering treatment for the existing steel structure, aimed at improving its strength and appearance while preserving its historic character.
The project’s estimated cost is ₹42.9 crore. Sandesh reported that the renovation work is progressing and that flooring for pedestrians on the bridge is nearing completion. Once the flooring work is finished, the walkway will be prepared for public access, subject to the project’s remaining works and official opening arrangements.
The planned amenities extend beyond pedestrian movement. Seating areas are being developed along the walkway so that visitors can spend time on the bridge and view the Sabarmati River. The report specifically highlighted the intended use of these spaces for families and visitors seeking views of the river and sunset.
The redevelopment reflects a broader effort to make historic urban structures usable as public spaces rather than treating them only as preserved landmarks. In the case of Ellis Bridge, the project combines conservation-related engineering with a new pedestrian function. The supplied report did not provide details about the agency executing the work, the precise design specifications, the bridge’s operating rules or whether access will be restricted during particular hours.
It also did not state whether the renovated walkway will affect any existing transport, maintenance or safety arrangements on or around the bridge. Those details will be relevant to how the heritage project connects with the surrounding riverfront and the city’s public-space network.
According to Sandesh, the completed Ellis Bridge is expected to become a prominent attraction in Ahmedabad and contribute to the city’s tourism appeal. The immediate milestone is the completion of the pedestrian flooring and associated renovation works, followed by the planned presentation of the heritage walkway to citizens around the New Year.
