HALDWANI: A Bailey bridge over Kalsia drain in Kathgodam has been completed, along with the approach road connecting it to the main road. The bridge is expected to open to traffic after Diwali, subject to a trial run.

Public Works Department officials said the trial will be conducted after the festival. The temporary crossing is important for people travelling from Kathgodam towards Nainital and Bhimtal.

Why the bridge matters

The old bridge over Kalsia drain was damaged during the rains 2 years ago. Since then, commuters travelling between Kathgodam, Nainital and Bhimtal have faced considerable difficulty.

The newly completed Bailey bridge is located at the site of the earlier crossing. However, the department has said that some protection work is still pending before traffic movement begins.

Permanent bridge plan

The government approved a 2-lane permanent bridge over Kalsia drain 6 months ago. The permanent structure is planned at the location of the old Bailey bridge.

The existing Bailey bridge will therefore have to be removed when work on the permanent bridge proceeds. Until then, the newly prepared crossing is expected to provide a route for traffic after -Diwali trial.

Assistant Engineer Pramod Suyal said the remaining protection work would be completed and that the Bailey bridge would be opened to traffic after Diwali. No specific opening date was given.

Conclusion

The Bailey bridge and its approach road are ready, but traffic will begin only after -Diwali trial and completion of the remaining protection work. A 2-lane permanent bridge has also been approved for the site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where has the Bailey bridge been completed?

The Bailey bridge has been completed over Kalsia drain in Kathgodam.

Q. When is the bridge expected to open to traffic?

It is expected to open after Diwali, following a trial run.

Q. Is the approach road ready?

Yes, the approach road from the main road to the Bailey bridge has been completed.

Q. Why was the bridge needed?

The old bridge was damaged during the rains 2 years ago, causing difficulty for travellers.

Q. Which routes will benefit from the crossing?

The crossing will help people travelling from Kathgodam towards Nainital and Bhimtal.

Q. Is a permanent bridge planned?

Yes, the government approved a 2-lane permanent bridge over Kalsia drain 6 months ago.

Q. What work remains before traffic begins?

Protection work remains, and the department will conduct a trial after Diwali.