Goa Travel Disrupted Kusmalli Bridge Opening Delayed by Rains
The opening of the Kusmalli Bridge on the Belagavi-Goa road via Chorla has been delayed due to ongoing rains in the Jamboti-Kankumbi region. Although the bridge structure is ready, final work on backfilling remains incomplete. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and say light vehicles may be allowed in the next few days if weather conditions improve.
Despite construction of the bridge being completed, the approach road on the Jamboti side is still under work. Continuous rainfall has disrupted the laying of GSB (granular sub-base) material required for safe vehicular movement. Officials said the area near the River Malaprabha remains waterlogged, preventing machinery from operating efficiently. Teams are stationed nearby, ready to resume work immediately once rain intensity reduces to manageable levels.
The bridge is considered a crucial connector for traffic between Goa and Belagavi, especially for vehicles using the Chorla Ghat route. Travellers and locals alike were expecting the bridge to open soon, but weather-related delays have affected movement in the region. Authorities mentioned that light vehicle access might be allowed temporarily, but full traffic flow will resume only after structural backfilling and wall protection work is fully completed.
A recent site inspection involving engineers and enforcement teams reviewed the condition of the bridge. Officials noted that while structural integrity is confirmed, safety remains a priority. The River Malaprabha has been flowing at high levels due to seasonal rains, increasing risk near the bridge site. Teams have been advised to strictly adhere to safety protocols and avoid rushed execution, especially with parts of the road still exposed.
Authorities are also preparing precautionary signage and diversion plans in case rain conditions worsen further. While no timeline has been guaranteed, it is estimated that two to three dry days are needed to wrap up the remaining tasks. Until then, alternate routes may continue to be used by regular commuters. The incident highlights the challenges of monsoon-season infrastructure work in the Western Ghats, where terrain and weather often complicate construction schedules.
As of now, the Kusmalli Bridge remains closed to public traffic due to unfinished backfilling caused by heavy rainfall. With critical protection works still pending, officials are prioritising safety over speed. Once conditions improve, authorities hope to open the route for light vehicles within days, bringing relief to daily commuters relying on the Belagavi-Goa corridor through the Chorla route.
