Pics: Daya Naik

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Sept 17: The long-awaited work on the Indrali railway bridge is now in its final stage and nearing completion, ahead of its scheduled inauguration on Sunday, September 21.

The new Indrali railway bridge will be officially inaugurated at 11:15 am on September 21 by union minister of state for Railways V Somanna. The bridge has been a much-anticipated infrastructure project on NH 169A, long demanded by local residents and commuters.

Currently, the main structure of the bridge is almost complete. Final phases of civil work are ongoing, including the completion of the pedestrian passage. One side wall has been finished, and work on the other side is progressing rapidly.

The entire steel bridge is being coated with protective paint to prevent rust and enhance durability. Painting has commenced and is expected to be completed before the inauguration deadline.

However, the approach road—critical for providing access to nearby schools and residential areas—is yet to be initiated. This remains a concern for local residents.

A skywalk is also planned to facilitate safe pedestrian crossing over NH 169A, especially for students and daily commuters. Vehicles heading towards Udupi Railway Station will now pass over the Indrali bridge and take a U-turn after the bridge to access the station. The proposed skywalk is expected to significantly improve pedestrian safety in the area.

With most civil work nearing completion, contractors have been directed to clear construction debris and carry out beautification around the site. However, the side passages on both ends of the bridge are still under construction.

The completion of this long-pending project comes after sustained pressure from the general public, civil groups, and various political parties, notably led by MP Kota Srinivas Poojary, who played a key role in accelerating the project’s progress.

Delays in the bridge's construction had resulted in a record number of accidents and severe traffic congestion during peak hours on the busy Udupi–Manipal National Highway. Commuters had frequently expressed frustration over the prolonged work and daily traffic snarls.

With the inauguration now set, the Indrali bridge is poised to significantly ease traffic movement, enhance safety, and mark the fulfilment of a long-standing public demand in the Udupi region.