Ahmedabad: Despite a recently announced ban on the entry of heavy, medium, and all passenger vehicles on Shastri Bridge, violations continue, raising safety concerns. The city police commissioner’s order, issued to prevent further damage to the bridge’s worn-out bearings and pedestals, prohibits the movement of vehicles on the over 40-year-old structure until February 8, 2026.

Although the bridge underwent repairs and renovation earlier this year, its bearings and pedestals remain in poor condition. Police have issued a notification and announced alternative routes for motorists, warning that violations will attract action under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. However, enforcement has been lax, with heavy vehicles continuing to ply the bridge unchecked.

The 43-year-old Vishala–Narol bridge is a crucial connector to the Expressway and National Highway 8. Tenders have been issued for a new bridge to replace the current one, along with an elevated eight-lane corridor from Narol to Sarkhej, estimated to cost ₹1,295 crore. DeshGujarat