Malda Prepares To Open New Ganga Bridge After Years Of Delays
After decades of anticipation and multiple setbacks, a vital second bridge over the Ganga in West Bengal’s Malda district is nearing completion and is scheduled to open by August. This bridge, connecting Vaishnavnagar to Farakka, aims to significantly ease the load on the aging Farakka Barrage bridge, which has been under immense traffic pressure for years. Initially, only two lanes of the new bridge will be opened, but this development is expected to drastically improve regional connectivity and reduce travel time across North Bengal and neighbouring states.
The existing Farakka Barrage bridge, operational since 1972, has long been overburdened by increasing vehicular movement, making it susceptible to structural fatigue. The need for an alternative structure was felt as early as two decades ago. However, despite the project’s approval, actual construction began only in 2018. The journey to completion was far from smooth—delays stemmed from a girder collapse incident, a tragic accident that resulted in multiple fatalities, and additional hold-ups caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions with China, which led to the withdrawal of a key contractor. The construction eventually resumed under a different Indian firm, with efforts accelerating over the past year. The total length of the new bridge, including its approach roads, is approximately 5.5 kilometres, with the main span over the Ganga stretching 2.58 kilometres.
Constructed using modern concrete technology and a ball-bearing method for stability, the bridge includes 42 pillars supporting the lanes and features extensive safety measures like CCTV surveillance, advanced lighting systems, and four designated parking zones. These updates reflect a growing emphasis on sustainable, durable, and secure infrastructure in the region. Civic engineers confirmed that final works—such as painting the dividers and installing remaining lights—are in progress and are expected to be completed by early August. Security infrastructure is a key focus, given the proximity to the international border with Bangladesh. Approach roads on both ends of the bridge have been constructed to facilitate smoother traffic integration. Local officials believe that even partial opening of the bridge will relieve the pressure on the old Farakka route, benefiting commuters, transport operators, and regional economies alike by reducing congestion and travel-related stress.
The near-completion of this bridge symbolises not only a feat of engineering but also a significant stride in regional development and resilience. For years, the lack of adequate interstate connectivity slowed economic activity and exposed commuters to daily risks. With the new bridge offering modern amenities, structural security, and better traffic planning, Malda is set to become a critical transit node between West Bengal, the Northeast, and central India. Ensuring maintenance, long-term durability, and sustainable usage will be key in translating this infrastructural gain into lasting socio-economic impact.
