Bridges have been used to connect two separate pieces of land since as far as architectural history goes. Throughout history, you can find uncountable mentions of bridges built to make travel and connectivity among a community run smoothly. Even though today the means of constructing these bridges might have gone under a massive makeover when compared to simple wooden, stone, iron or similar metal bridges built over the years, the fact is bridges have been important for all progress. With India home to many rivers, and their tributaries and surrounded by the sea, the long, connecting bridges become even more essential. Providing accessibility to lands near a water body is one of the main aspects of these bridges. In India, as technology and progress touch new heights daily, many durable bridges have been constructed to bring easy travel, access and resources to even the remotest parts of the country. Come along as we explore some of the longest bridges in India.
Some of the longest bridges in India to check out
1. Dr Bhupen Hazarika Setu, Dhola Sadiya Bridge
Dr Bhupen Hazarika Setu, Dhola Sadiya Bridge, connecting Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, is one massive bridge built over the Lohit River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra river. This impressive bridge is the longest river bridge in India, making people visit the bridge to witness its quiet grandness. The bridge is also known for its beautiful views, making for a gorgeous visit as you travel down the bridge.
Where: Assam
2. Bandra Worli Sea Link
One of the most recognisable parts of Mumbai, this modern bridge is counted among the longest bridges in India. The Bandra Worli Sea Link with its iconic cable-wired installations, is known for its unique design. It has used concrete-steel viaducts on the sides to strengthen the foundation and has seismic arresters to stand any earthquake.
Where: Mumbai
3. Vikramshila Setu
Vikramshila Setu is a bridge in Bihar, built over the river Ganges. One of the longest river bridges in India, it is also the second-longest bridge in Bihar. It has helped massively lessen the time it took to travel between Bhagalpur and other places. An important bridge in Bihar, this bridge brings critical accessibility within the state.
Where: Bihar
4. Godavari Bridge
The Godavari Bridge is known to be the third longest rail-road bridge in India. Probably the most fascinating fact about this bridge is that it is divided into two levels, the bottom being a single-track rail deck and the top level being a road bridge. Also known as the Kovvur-Rajahmundry Bridge, this bridge is part of a four-part bridge complex built on the Godavari River. This network includes the Old Godavari Bridge (decommissioned), the Godavari Arch Bridge and the Fourth Godavari Bridge.
Where: Andhra Pradesh
5. Mahatma Gandhi Setu
Another of the top longest bridges in India, this bridge has been constructed in a beam style. Also a famous tourist attraction, this bridge is one of the most heavily used bridges in the state. The bridge connects Patna (south part of Bihar) and Hajipur (north part of Bihar). It has been constructed with all cautions to ease the passage of ships below, cars and other vehicles on the bridge and even pedestrians on the two pedestrian lanes on the bridge.
Where: Bihar
6. Vembanad Rail Bridge
An impressive rail bridge down south, this bridge connects Edapally and Vallarpadam in Kochi. Running along the side of a beautiful water body, the bridge is known for its charming views along the way, even including backwaters and Kumarakom, a popular tourist destination.
Where: Kerala
7. Bogibeel Bridge
This is also a rail-road bridge built over the Brahmaputra river and connects Dhemaji and Dibrugarh, two districts in Assam. The bridge is a crucial means of connectivity that eases the exchange of resources and travel greatly. The bridge is fitted with copper-covered steel plates to increase durability and seismic restrainers to help fend off earthquakes.
Where: Assam