Vadodara: More than a year after collapse of Gambhira bridge claimed 22 lives and severed a crucial road link between Vadodara and Anand, a newly constructed bridge across Mahi river was inaugurated by Gujarat chief minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday, restoring direct connectivity between the two regions and easing the movement of people and goods towards Saurashtra.The new bridge, constructed at a cost of Rs 212 crore, was among development projects worth Rs 1,273 crore for Vadodara city and district that were inaugurated or launched by CM at a programme in Varnama.The Gambhira bridge had collapsed on July 9, 2025, sending vehicles plunging into the Mahi river. Construction of the replacement bridge began on Aug 14, 2025, and was completed within govt’s targeted 12-month period, ahead of the contractual deadline of Aug 13.The 854.5m long, two-lane bridge has 23 spans supported by 21 piers and two abutments. The structure incorporates epoxy-coated steel to reduce corrosion, while precast components were used to speed up construction. Inspection platforms have also been provided at the piers to facilitate maintenance.The reopening is expected to provide relief to commuters, students and workers who depend on the route and facilitate the movement of goods between Vadodara and Saurashtra region. After the old bridge was partially restored for two-wheelers and pedestrians, more than 12,000-13,000 two-wheelers and 1,300-1,500 pedestrians were using it daily. Four-wheelers and heavy vehicles, however, remained barred.The bridge was part of a wider development package for Vadodara city and district. The other projects included works worth Rs 441.4 crore by Vadodara Municipal Corporation, Rs 408.9 crore under the panchayat department and Rs 106 crore by GETCO. Projects were also taken up by the social justice and empowerment; labour, skill development and employment; roads and buildings and planning departments.Patel also inaugurated the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial near Kamatibaug. Built at a cost of more than Rs 25 crore, the memorial showcases episodes from Ambedkar’s life through murals and exhibitions, along with a virtual experience of his speeches and light-and-sound presentations.The memorial is expected to emerge as a tourism destination, particularly given Vadodara’s historical association with Ambedkar. The Sankalp Bhoomi site near Kamatibaug is associated with his resolve to fight caste discrimination. The memorial is part of the state govt’s efforts to commemorate places associated with his life and legacy.
