Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, Mar 6: Construction work on the Wayil bridge, a first-of-its-kind arch-truss-girder design bridge, on Srinagar, Leh National Highway is nearing completion in Ganderbal district.
The bridge, constructed using a unique combination of truss and arch bridge elements and girders, is set to become a vital link for the people of Ganderbal, replacing the old single-lane bridge that caused frequent traffic jams and delays.
The Roads and Buildings department, which is executing the project, has completed the majority of the bridge’s construction work. The remaining work, including the approaches and other finishing works, is ongoing and in full swing and is expected to be completed soon.
“This is a remarkable engineering feat that will serve the region for many decades to come. The use of arch-truss-girder design and girders as a means of supporting the deck is an innovative approach that will make this bridge a landmark structure in the region,” Chief Engineer of the Roads and Buildings Department, Rafiq Ahmad, told Excelsior.
The bridge, he said, will shortly be opened for traffic. “We are putting the finishing touches on it, and when we are done, it will be available,” he said.
An official privy to the details said the two-lane bridge, with a span of 110 meters and a width of 10.50 meters, was funded by the World Bank and it came up at a cost of Rs 23.79 crores and is a major development in the region’s infrastructure.
He said the length of approach roads is 330 meters, and the specialty of this bridge is that two vehicles can pass at the same time. Tourists visiting several famous tourist and pilgrim destinations, including Sonamarg, Naranag, and Shri Amarnathji shrine, will also benefit from the new bridge.
“With its completion drawing closer, the Wayil bridge is sure to have a significant impact on the people and infrastructure of Ganderbal district, providing a much-needed upgrade to the area’s transportation infrastructure,” he said.
The innovative design of the bridge has already started to attract attention from locals and commuters, with people taking selfies on the bridge.
“The majority of the bridges in Kashmir have poor designs, thus this is the first one that adds character and draws both locals and visitors. The Sind River flows underneath this structure, which has improved the area’s beauty,” Sartaj Ahmad, a local, said.
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