ADRM Infrastructure, Vijayawada Division, SCR leads High-Level Quality & Safety Inspection of Road-cum-Rail and Arch Bridges

 ₹115 Crore Infra Push to Ensure Safer, Stronger Bridges by 2027

Shri P E Edwin, Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Infrastructure), Vijayawada Division, South Central Railway on 3rd June 2025 conducted a detailed quality and safety inspection of the ongoing infrastructure development works on both the Railway Bridges over the Godavari River at Rajahmundry. Accompanied by Shri P. Sreenivasa Rao, Senior Divisional Engineer (Bridge Lines), the inspection highlighted significant milestones in structural upgrades and future-readiness of the twin engineering marvels.

Road-cum-Rail Bridge: Safer Footpaths, Stronger Structure

The newly installed steel footpaths on both sides of the road portion have replaced the worn-out precast concrete footpaths. This enhancement provides a safer, more durable walkway for pedestrians while significantly reducing structural load on the bridge, thereby doubling its operational life.

Inspection also covered vital under-bridge components such as oil bath bearings and newly designed inspection platforms aimed at improving routine maintenance and safety operations. The total cost of these works is pegged at ₹45 crores, and funding support is anticipated from the State Government under an MoU with Indian Railways.

Iconic Arch Bridge: ₹70 Cr Cable Replacement Work in Full Swing

At the Arch Bridge, Shri Edwin inspected the ongoing cable replacement work — one of the most technically demanding tasks. Demonstrating hands-on leadership, he ascended the role platform positioned in the river to examine the underside cable arrangement and interact with field engineers.

Shri Sreenivasa Rao detailed the complex methodology employed for the cable replacement. This ₹70 crore project is expected to be completed by 2027 and is pivotal in extending the functional lifespan of the bridge under modern load standards.

ADRM’s Remarks: Commitment to Engineering Excellence

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Edwin said, “These bridges are not just structures—they’re lifelines that connect communities and drive economic progress. The level of technical expertise and dedication shown by our Bridge Organisation team is truly commendable. We are ensuring that these bridges continue to stand tall and safe for generations to come.”

Shri Narendra A Patil, Divisional Railway Manager, Vijayawada Division, SCR lauded the Vijayawada Division team for executing this complex infrastructure upgrade with a focus on quality, safety, and innovation under challenging conditions.

SCR BZA PR No.38
Date: 3^rd June, 2025