Surat: The long-awaited Ratnamala Bridge in the Katargam area was formally opened to the public on Thursday, bringing significant relief to nearly 10 lakh residents affected by chronic traffic congestion between Katargam and Amroli.

The bridge was inaugurated in the presence of Union Minister C.R. Patil, Rajya Sabha MP Govind Dholakia, and Surat Mayor Dakshesh Mawani, after the scheduled visit of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel was cancelled at the last moment.

Constructed at an estimated cost of ₹62.84 crore, the 1,030-metre-long two-lane flyover connects Kasar Nagar in Katargam directly with the Amroli–Kosad belt, providing a crucial alternative route for daily commuters.

The bridge passes over major congestion points including Gajera Circle and Ratnamala Char Rasta, which frequently witness severe traffic gridlock during peak evening hours.

The Ratnamala Bridge had remained a major concern for both the civic administration and the ruling party due to repeated delays. Although the project deadline was completed nearly one and a half years ago, construction progressed slowly, leading to widespread public resentment.

The flyover also passes several key landmarks, including Katargam Lake Garden, Katargam GIDC, Hindu Milan Mandir, Gajera School, Millennium Market, and nearby SMC offices, ensuring smoother traffic movement across the region. DeshGujarat