Subhash Bridge to remain closed for 3 more days, safety report delayed

The much-awaited technical report on the condition of Subhash Bridge in Ahmedabad will be delayed by a few days and is now expected to be submitted around December 28, civic officials said on Wednesday. The report was earlier slated for submission on December 25.

The delay comes amid ongoing consultations between the state government, the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC), as authorities deliberate on the future course of action for the key river crossing, which has been closed to traffic as a precautionary measure.

Officials said no final or neutral decision has yet been taken on whether the bridge can be reopened after repairs or if more extensive measures, including structural interventions, will be required. In the meantime, the bridge will remain closed for at least three more days, causing continued traffic diversions and inconvenience to commuters.

“The report has not been received yet. Consultations are currently underway with the state government, the R&B Department and the municipal commissioner. Once the report is submitted, a decision will be taken based strictly on expert opinion,” said Devang Dani, chairman of the AMC Standing Committee.

The Subhash Bridge, a critical east-west connector across the Sabarmati, was shut after concerns were raised about its structural health. Since then, multiple inspections have been conducted, and the traffic police have implemented alternative arrangements to manage vehicular traffic in the area.

Civic officials maintained that public safety remains the top priority and that the bridge will only be reopened after all technical assessments are completed and necessary approvals are in place. “At this stage, no decision has been finalised. The bridge will continue to remain closed until we receive the report and take a considered call,” Dani added.

Authorities stated that further updates will be issued once the report is submitted and reviewed by the relevant departments.