CHANDIGARH, APRIL 25 — The Union Territory administration approved the construction of a high-level, four-lane bridge over the Sukhna Choe, a project that had remained in the planning stages for over a decade. The new structure, estimated to cost ₹16.63 crore, will replace an existing low-level causeway that frequently becomes a bottleneck for commuters traveling between Manimajra’s Shastri Nagar and Sector 26.
Officials stated that the 500-meter-long bridge is scheduled to begin construction in July following a three-month tendering period. The project is expected to be completed within one year. Once operational, the all-weather bridge will provide a reliable crossing for residents of IT Park and Mansa Devi Complex, who currently face significant disruptions during the monsoon season when the existing causeway often submerges.
The current 13.40-meter-wide causeway has long been deemed inadequate as it forces traffic from four-lane approach roads into a narrow crossing. The UT engineering department affirmed that the new design features dual carriageways, each 9.5 meters wide, ensuring a seamless flow of vehicles. The administration noted that the structure will also include 2.5-meter-wide cycle tracks and footpaths, aligning with the city’s broader mobility and safety goals.
The necessity of the project was underscored by the severe flooding in July 2023, which damaged the existing railings and forced a multi-day closure of the route. This closure caused extensive traffic jams on alternate arteries like Madhya Marg. The administration maintained that the new reinforced cement concrete bridge, featuring two 28.5-meter spans, will eliminate these safety concerns and provide a permanent solution to the seasonal flooding issues that have plagued the stretch since its conceptualization in 2013.
