Bridging India: Morbi is a reminder how crucial bridges are as joints in India’s vast terrestrial logistics network

Source– The post is based on the article “Bridging India: Morbi is a reminder how crucial bridges are as joints in India’s vast terrestrial logistics network” published in The Times of India on 2nd november 2022.

Syllabus: GS3- Infrastructure

Relevance– Importance of good infrastructure

News- The article explains the significance of bridges in the case of India.

What is the importance of bridges?

Bridges are the joints that link the road and rail network across challenging terrain. They are an indicator of society’s capabilities.

They are celebrated as engineering marvels. Example is 100-year-old Pamban rail bridge across the sea that links peninsular India to Rameswaram island

India currently moves about 4.6 billion tonnes of freight a year. Around 70% is transported by trucks and 18% by rail. India’s coast-to-landmass ratio is relatively low. The landmass is crisscrossed by multiple rivers prone to annual flooding. GoI estimates that about 12% of the area is prone to floods. It makes bridge building critical.

They are an important part of the rail network. In 2018, the rail track length of 67368 km included 1.47 lakh bridges. Many of them have been in existence for over a century.

What steps are being taken by the government to improve bridge management?

Technology will play an important role in extending the longevity of bridges. Stainless steel is being used in bridge construction in coastal areas. Railways have begun to use drones to inspect bridges. Use of drones is expected to improve oversight, particularly during the monsoon.

GoI announced the establishment of the Indian bridge management system to collect information on bridges. It will enhance the quality of maintenance.