Howrah Bridge: Exploring the Heritage & Legacy of Calcutta’s Engineering Marvel!!

Posted on Tuesday, October 15th, 2024 by Neha Sharma

Welcome to the iconic Howrah Bridge, a true engineering masterpiece & a symbol of Kolkata’s rich legacy! Stretching across the powerful Hooghly River, this remarkable bridge is not only a crucial transport link but also a vibrant emblem of the city’s heritage. Known for its distinctive cantilever structure and lively surroundings, the Howrah Bridge serves as a bridge between Kolkata’s past and present, blending the old with the new. Join us as we delve into the intriguing history, breathtaking design, and unique tales that make the Howrah Bridge an exceptional landmark of India.

Historical Background of the Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge, a major landmark in Kolkata, has a fascinating history that goes back to the early 20th century. It was built to replace an old bridge that was not able to handle the increasing traffic.

Work on the Howrah Bridge started in 1936 and took about six years to finish. Designed by the British engineer Lord Brabazon, it was officially opened to the public on February 3, 1943. Interestingly, the bridge was constructed without any bolts or nuts; instead, it used rivets to hold its steel structure together.

The bridge soon became a crucial part of Kolkata’s transport system, connecting the busy city center with the industrial areas across the Hooghly River. Today, it remains a key part of daily life in Kolkata, carrying thousands of vehicles and pedestrians every day.

Architectural Features Of Howrah Bridge

The Calcutta Howrah Bridge is a stunning example of cantilever bridge design, combining both practicality and beauty. Here’s a look at some of its key features:

• Cantilever Design: The bridge is built with a cantilever design, meaning it extends out from a central support without needing extra braces. This clever design lets it cross the Hooghly River without needing support in the water.
• Steel Construction: Made entirely of steel, the bridge uses over 26,000 tons of steel, making it strong & long-lasting. Instead of bolts or nuts, the steel parts are joined together with thousands of rivets, which adds to its historic engineering importance.
• Impressive Size: The Calcutta Howrah Bridge is about 705 meters (2,313 feet) long and 15.2 meters (50 feet) wide. Its main span is around 457 meters (1,500 feet), making it one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world.
• Unique Design: The bridge has a distinctive look with its open framework & steel trusses. Its design is not only functional, allowing it to handle heavy traffic, but also visually appealing.
• No Bolts or Nuts: Remarkably, the Howrah Bridge was built without bolts or nuts. Instead, its parts are held together by riveting, a technique that was both innovative and crucial for the bridge’s strength and stability.

How to Reach Howrah Bridge

• By Bus: Howrah Bridge is easily reachable by local buses and taxis from different parts of Kolkata. You can also take the Airport bus service, which provides a direct connection from the airport to the bridge.
• By Flight: The nearest airport to Howrah Bridge is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. Once you land, you can use a taxi or the Airport Link service to get to the bridge. There are numerous flights available to Kolkata from various destinations.
• By Train: Howrah Junction, one of the busiest train stations in India, is close to Howrah Bridge. It’s just a short walk or a quick taxi ride away.
• By Metro: The nearest metro station is Mahatma Gandhi Road, which connects to different areas of Kolkata. If you’re coming from the airport, you can also use Shivaji Stadium Metro Station on the Orange Line for convenient access to the bridge.

The best time to Visit Howrah Bridge

The ideal time to visit Howrah Bridge is during the winter season, from October to February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for exploring Kolkata. To avoid heavy traffic and enjoy the peaceful views of the river and city skyline, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the evening. The bridge is particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset, making these times perfect for capturing beautiful photos.

Unknown Facts About the Howrah Bridge

• No Nuts and Bolts: The Howrah Bridge is one of the largest cantilever bridges worldwide and was built without using any nuts or bolts. Instead, its entire structure is held together by riveting.
• Renamed in 1965: Initially known as the New Howrah Bridge, it was officially renamed Rabindra Setu in 1965 to honor the renowned Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.
• Heavy Traffic Load: The bridge accommodates over 100,000 vehicles and around 150,000 pedestrians each day, making it one of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world.
• Resilient Design: The bridge demonstrated its remarkable durability during World War II by surviving Japanese air raids with minimal damage.
• Iconic Film Location: Howrah Bridge has been featured in numerous Indian films, becoming a well-known backdrop in Bollywood and adding to its cultural significance.
• Steel Import: The steel used for constructing the bridge was supplied by Tata Steel, but due to shortages in the 1940s, much of it had to be imported from England.
• Floating Foundation: The bridge’s foundation is supported by large caissons sunk deep into the riverbed, allowing it to remain stable despite the soft ground.

Nearby Attractions in the Howrah Bridge

• Victoria Memorial: A grand marble building dedicated to Queen Victoria, surrounded by beautiful gardens. It also has a museum that displays the history of the British Raj.
• Indian Museum: One of India’s oldest museums, it has a huge collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures and Egyptian mummies.
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple: A historic temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, known for its spiritual importance and connection to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
• Belur Math: The main center of the Ramakrishna Mission, offering peaceful surroundings and spiritual insights, with a mix of architectural styles.
• Eden Gardens Cricket Stadium: A famous cricket stadium and one of the largest in India, known for hosting international matches and major cricket tournaments.
• Marble Palace: A 19th-century mansion filled with beautiful marble sculptures, artwork, and antiques, set in a lovely garden.
• Princep Ghat: A scenic riverside promenade, popular for boat rides and views of the Hooghly River, featuring a colonial-era pavilion.

Visitor Guidelines for Howrah Bridge West Bengal

• No Photography: Photography on the bridge is not allowed for security reasons.
• Pedestrian Walkway: Use the designated walkways to stay safe.
• No Littering: Keep the bridge clean by throwing trash in the provided bins.
• Avoid Peak Hours: Visit during quieter times to avoid heavy traffic & crowds.
• Stay Cautious: Watch out for vehicles and cyclists while walking.
• No Hawking: Selling goods or setting up stalls on the bridge is not allowed.
• Restricted Parking: You cannot park on the bridge.

Pro Tips for Visiting Howrah Bridge

• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late evenings are great for a calm walk.
• Avoid Weekdays: Weekends are less crowded compared to weekdays.
• Visit Nearby Attractions: Check out nearby spots like Howrah Station & the Flower Market as well.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Since you’ll be walking a lot, wear comfortable shoes.
• Respect Local Customs: Be polite & aware of local customs during your visit.
• Stay Hydrated: Bring water with you, especially if you’re visiting during the day as it can be hot.

Other Activities To Do in Kolkata

Kolkata offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. You can take a scenic boat ride on the Hooghly River, visit the impressive Victoria Memorial, explore the diverse exhibits at the Indian Museum, or wander through the Maidan Gardens. Tourism in Kolkata is enriched by its vibrant street life and rich cultural heritage, making it a fascinating destination.

Other Popular Attractions in India

India has numerous famous attractions that attract tourists from all corners of the globe. Highlights include the Taj Mahal in Agra, the Amber Fort in Jaipur, the tranquil backwaters of Kerala, and the beautiful beaches of Goa. Tourism in India flourishes thanks to its rich history, varied landscapes, and vibrant culture, providing endless opportunities for exploration.

Caves in India

Temples in India

Beaches in India

Places to Visit in India

Parks in India

Forts in India

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is Howrah Bridge?

A: Howrah Bridge is located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, spanning the Hooghly River.

Q: Why Howrah Bridge is closed at 12 O clock?

A: It is closed for a short period each day for maintenance and inspection purposes.

Q: When was Howrah Bridge built?

A: Construction began in 1936 and was completed in 1943.

Q: Who built Howrah bridge?

A: It was constructed by the British government, with the design by the engineering firm of R. E. D. Craig & Co.

Q: Why Howrah Bridge was built?

A: It was built to replace a pontoon bridge and to improve transportation between the city of Kolkata and its suburbs.

Q: Which river flows under the Howrah Bridge?

A: The Hooghly River.

Q: Who designed Howrah bridge?

A: The bridge was designed by the British engineer R. E. D. Craig.

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