Construction will soon begin on the biggest rail-road bridge in the country. This project has been approved by the cabinet. The plan includes the construction of four train tracks and a highway with six lanes. This new bridge will take the place of the 137-year-old Malviya Bridge that is currently being used.
The cabinet has approved this proposal. The new rail-road bridge will receive funding of Rs 2642 crore from the government. The Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Rail-Road Bridge in Varanasi will not just facilitate travel, but also lower transportation expenses and carbon emissions. The government asserts that this bridge will also result in an annual saving of Rs 638 crore. In addition, connectivity will also increase in numerous areas.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnav explained that the base of the rail-road bridge will be at a depth of 120 feet. Columns will be erected on it and the bridge will be constructed on top of them. This bridge will have the highest traffic volume.
There will be four railway lines and six highway lanes. There will be a railway line below and an overhead 6-lane highway will be constructed. The construction of this bridge will take into account a 150-year lifespan. The goal is to finish it within a span of four years. Ashwini Vaishnav announced that around 10 lakh man days will be created through employment opportunities during the building of this bridge.
This project received the cabinet’s approval during the Wednesday meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This will enhance the connection between Varanasi and Chandauli regions. Varanasi holds significance as a crucial railway station for the Indian Railways.
Passenger and freight transport are equally important as well. This path continues to experience high traffic because of the transportation of coal, cement, and grains. It is a significant location for pilgrims as well. This is why the bridge is getting four new railway lines. This project will expand the railway network by approximately 30 kilometers.