Vasai, a city that connects the east and west, will see the replacement of the aging Ambadi Bridge in June. This bridge, which has been standing for over five decades, is showing signs of wear and tear, and the railway authorities have deemed it unfit for further service. The municipal corporation has made the crucial decision to build a new bridge in its place.
The Ambadi Bridge, stretching 160 meters in length and standing at a height of 6 meters, has been an essential link for both pedestrians and vehicles, serving as a pathway across the railway tracks. Over the last five years, the bridge has been predominantly used for vehicular transportation. However, it has recently been restricted to lightweight vehicles due to its deteriorating condition.
The municipal corporation has conducted a structural audit of this bridge, which has revealed that it would cost around seven crore rupees to make it safe for continued use. Furthermore, it has been determined that even after repairs, the bridge can only be utilized for light vehicles. Given these limitations, the municipal corporation has decided to demolish the Ambadi Bridge and build a new one in its place.
In light of this decision, the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation has written a letter to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) seeking assistance. The new bridge will be constructed as part of the ‘Setu Bharatam‘ initiative, a scheme launched by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to eliminate railway crossings. Under this scheme, the Central Government will be responsible for constructing railway flyovers.
This decision is a response to the deteriorating condition of the Ambadi Bridge, which has not only posed a risk to the safety of pedestrians and motorists but has also impeded the flow of traffic. The bridge has been in use for several decades, and its structural integrity has significantly deteriorated.
The municipal corporation aims to address these concerns by completely replacing the Ambadi Bridge, ensuring that Vasai’s residents have a safer and more efficient means of crossing the railway tracks. The ‘Setu Bharatam‘ initiative aligns with the Central Government’s efforts to enhance road safety and reduce railway-related accidents.
The Ambadi Bridge has been a critical transportation link for Vasai’s residents, providing a connection between the eastern and western parts of the city. As part of the redevelopment plans, the new bridge will be designed to modern standards, adhering to safety regulations, and accommodating the needs of both pedestrians and vehicles.
This decision to replace the bridge comes after extensive consultations between the municipal corporation and the railway authorities. The structural audit highlighted the risks associated with the continued use of the old bridge and confirmed the need for a new one.
The new Ambadi Bridge is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion and enhance the overall safety of Vasai’s residents. The project aligns with the broader infrastructure development goals of the Central Government, aiming to create more reliable and secure transportation networks across the country.
While the replacement of the Ambadi Bridge comes with a substantial price tag, the long-term benefits in terms of safety and efficiency far outweigh the initial investment. This initiative serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the infrastructure and safety of its citizens.
The municipal corporation is now in the planning and development phase of the new bridge project. It is expected to be a vital addition to Vasai’s infrastructure, not only facilitating the ease of movement but also ensuring the safety of its residents. The residents of Vasai can look forward to a modern and structurally sound Ambadi Bridge, which will serve their transportation needs for years to come.
In conclusion, the decision to replace the Ambadi Bridge in Vasai is a significant step towards improving the safety and efficiency of transportation in the region. The new bridge, as part of the ‘Setu Bharatam’ initiative, aligns with the Central Government’s efforts to create safer transportation networks across the country. Despite the initial cost, the long-term benefits in terms of safety and convenience for Vasai’s residents make this project a valuable investment in the city’s future. The municipal corporation is now in the planning phase, and we can expect the new bridge to enhance the lives of Vasai’s residents for many years to come.
