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The Howrah Bridge is not just a passage across the Hooghly River—it’s the beating heart of Kolkata, echoing its industrial past, cultural richness, and architectural brilliance. From handling massive daily traffic to inspiring filmmakers and artists, the bridge has become an integral part of Bengal’s identity.
1. What is the Howrah Bridge of Kolkata?
The Howrah Bridge, officially named Rabindra Setu, is a cantilever bridge that spans the Hooghly River in West Bengal, connecting the twin cities of Howrah and Kolkata. Functioning as a key artery of daily commute, it carries thousands of vehicles and pedestrians every day, acting as a lifeline between eastern India’s biggest transportation hub—Howrah Station—and the metropolis of Kolkata.
2. What is the History of Howrah Bridge?
The journey of the Howrah Bridge began in the late 19th century, when the British government realized the need for a more permanent river crossing. The original bridge, a floating pontoon bridge built in 1874, became inadequate due to increasing traffic.
In 1935, construction of the new bridge began, and it was finally opened to the public on February 3, 1943. Post-independence, in 1965, it was renamed Rabindra Setu in honor of Rabindranath Tagore, although it’s still popularly known as Howrah Bridge.
For more on its historical evolution, check out this detailed read:
Howrah Bridge: History of the Bridge that Keeps Kolkata Connected
3. Who Designed the Howrah Bridge, and How Was It Constructed?
The design and execution of the Howrah Bridge were entrusted to Rendel, Palmer & Tritton, a British engineering firm. The actual construction was carried out by Braithwaite, Burn & Jessop Construction Company.
What sets the Howrah Bridge apart is its riveted cantilever structure, built without a single nut or bolt. Over 26,500 tonnes of steel, mostly supplied by Tata Steel, were used. Two massive piers anchor the bridge into the riverbed, supporting the 705-meter-long deck without any pillars in the middle of the river—allowing uninterrupted movement of ships beneath.
What is the Overall Length and Width of the Howrah Bridge?
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Total Length: 705 meters (2,313 feet)
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Width: 71 feet
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Height above water: 82 meters
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Main Span: 457 meters
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Lanes: 8 (for vehicles), along with footpaths on both sides for pedestrians
These dimensions made it one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world at the time of its completion.
What Are Some of the Lesser Known Facts of Howrah Bridge?
Despite being one of India’s most recognizable landmarks, the Howrah Bridge holds some surprising secrets:
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🔩 No bolts were used—it’s held together by over 2.5 million rivets.
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🚶♂️ Foot traffic and vehicle load: It carries over 100,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians every day.
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🎥 Cinematic fame: Featured in films like Yuva, Barfi, Kahaani, and many Bengali classics.
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🎨 Regular maintenance: Each repainting requires over 26,000 liters of paint.
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🌉 Not just a bridge: It’s considered a cultural and engineering icon—a symbol of Kolkata's resilience and connectivity.
Why Is the Howrah Bridge Important?
The bridge isn’t just a marvel of engineering; it’s a functional, cultural, and emotional symbol for the city and beyond.
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Economic Value: It connects the industrial west bank (Howrah) to the commercial and cultural east bank (Kolkata).
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Cultural Significance: It’s ingrained in Bengal’s literature, art, and music.
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Architectural Legacy: An enduring example of early 20th-century infrastructure that continues to serve millions daily.
Conclusion
The Howrah Bridge is more than steel, rivets, and span—it’s a testament to Kolkata’s historical depth and engineering prowess. Standing strong for over 80 years, it remains one of India’s most significant landmarks, inspiring awe in engineers, artists, and everyday citizens alike.
Want to explore more stories behind India’s iconic structures?
Check out this detailed article:
Howrah Bridge: History of the Bridge that Keeps Kolkata Connected
