Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 22: Preparations have begun for the construction of a new bridge at the site of the old bridge near Maravoor on State Highway 67, which connects Bajpe, Kateel, Kinnigoli and the Mangaluru International Airport.

The government has approved a proposal worth approximately Rs 40 crore for the construction of the bridge, and the tender process is currently underway. The work is expected to begin after the monsoon season. The proposed bridge will be around 200 metres long and 12 metres wide.

Vehicular movement on the existing 50-year-old bridge has been restricted due to its dilapidated condition. Another four-lane bridge was constructed in 2023, and the old bridge has remained closed since 2024. Since then, two-way traffic has been allowed only on the new bridge, causing inconvenience to smooth traffic flow and increasing the risk of accidents.

Earlier in July 2021, traffic on the old bridge was completely stopped after one side pillar of the bridge sank into the soil. This had disrupted connectivity to the airport via Kavoor. By the end of July that year, the bridge was repaired and reopened for traffic. Using jack technology, the pillar was corrected, and only light motor vehicles were permitted to use the bridge.

In 2022, construction of a new bridge was initiated at a cost of Rs 15 crore. After the new bridge was opened for traffic in June 2024, the old bridge was tested again and was not permitted for further use.

The old bridge was originally constructed in 1969 as part of the Mangaluru-Athrady State Highway 67. According to PWD officials, the bridge pillars and their foundation have weakened considerably. After restoration attempts and a detailed inspection, it was concluded that the bridge was no longer fit for traffic. Consequently, a proposal was submitted to the government to demolish the old bridge and construct a new one in its place.

PWD officials stated that a detailed project has now been prepared for the construction of the new bridge at an estimated cost of Rs 40 crore.

Moodbidri-Mulki MLA Umanath Kotian said, “It has been reported that the old bridge is unfit for traffic. Around Rs 6 crore had already been spent on the bridge two years ago. Instead of spending repeatedly on repairs, a proposal for a new bridge was submitted. At present, the tender process is in progress.”