New Gambhira Bridge Connecting Vadodara – Anand Ready; Load Testing Underway

Vadodara: The construction of the new Gambhira Bridge over the Mahi River near Mujpur on the Anand–Vadodara highway has been completed within the 12-month deadline set by the Roads and Buildings Department. The bridge, constructed at a cost of around Rs 212 crore, is currently undergoing final safety and technical tests before it opens to traffic.

The new bridge has been constructed after the nearly 40-year-old Gambhira Bridge collapsed on July 9, 2025, killing more than 20 people. Following the tragedy last year, the state government took up the reconstruction of the old bridge on a priority basis and set a 12-month deadline for completing the new high-level bridge.

Modern construction technology has been used to improve the bridge’s strength and durability. Epoxy-coated steel has been used to reduce the risk of corrosion and extend the structure’s service life, while precast elements helped speed up construction.

An inspection platform has also been provided on each pillar to facilitate routine inspection and maintenance. Around 300 workers worked in shifts during the construction, helping the project meet its deadline.

Final testing underway

The bridge will open only after all safety and quality checks are done, even though construction is finished. Load testing and other technical assessments are currently underway to verify its structural strength and safety.

The bridge is likely to open to traffic by the end of August, subject to the completion of testing and necessary clearances.

The new bridge is expected to provide major relief to motorists traveling between Vadodara and Anand, particularly those currently using alternative routes following the collapse of the old bridge.

Once opened, the bridge is expected to reduce travel time and fuel consumption while restoring a smoother and more direct road connection between the two districts. DeshGujarat