Ambazari Bridge Completion Delayed: Bridge to Open by September 30, Says Contractor

Nagpur Updates August 8, 2024

4 minutes read

Ambazari Bridge construction site with delayed completion sign

Ambazari Bridge Completion Delay: In a disappointing turn of events, the much-anticipated completion of the four-lane Ambazari Bridge has been delayed. Initially promised to open by August 30, the contractor has now pushed the date back to September 30. This delay is expected to increase the inconvenience for the residents of West Nagpur and other road users who are already grappling with severe traffic jams.

The Announcement

During a recent meeting of infrastructure contractors, convened by Dr. Ravinder Singal, Commissioner of Police, at the Police Bhavan, the contractor announced the delay. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Shashikant Satav expressed his frustration over the delay during the meeting. “The completion deadline was set for August 30 as per the contract. It’s imperative that the work is done on time,” Satav stressed. The contractor, however, was less reassuring, stating, “We will not be able to finish the work by the original deadline. The bridge will be opened for traffic only by September 30.”

Reasons for the Delay (Ambazari Bridge Completion Delay)

Dr. Singal probed further into the reasons behind the delay. “Are you facing a shortage of labor or materials?” he asked. The contractor explained that the delay was due to the time required for the concrete to set properly. “We received the work order up to March 11, 2025, and are aiming to complete the bridge by September 30,” the contractor clarified. The contractor also highlighted additional complications. “The design we received from the Public Works Design Department made it impossible to complete half of the work. Additionally, there were seven to eight 33 kV power lines from MSETCL running through the site, which caused a month-long delay,” he said.

Challenges Faced (Ambazari Bridge Completion Delay)

Concrete Setting Time: The primary reason cited for the delay is the time required for the concrete to set properly. This is crucial to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of the bridge.
Design Issues: The contractor mentioned that the design provided by the Public Works Design Department was flawed, making it impossible to complete half of the work within the stipulated time.
Power Lines: The presence of seven to eight 33 kV power lines from MSETCL running through the construction site caused a significant delay.

Response from Authorities

In response to these challenges, Dr. Singal sought assurances from MSETCL officials, who promised to cooperate with the contractor to expedite the work. The bridge, once completed, will feature a widened span of 21 meters with three box-type channels and an increased height of 7 meters.

Impact on Residents

The delay comes as a major blow to the residents of West Nagpur, who have been facing worsening traffic conditions due to the ongoing construction. The small lanes of West Nagpur have become increasingly congested, with more four-wheelers than usual navigating through them.

Traffic Alleviation Efforts

In an effort to alleviate traffic issues, the Bombay High Court recently directed that the road inside VNIT be opened for two-wheelers. The High Court had also previously instructed authorities to expedite the bridge construction work. Despite these directives, the involved agencies have failed to meet the prescribed deadlines.

Future Prospects

The completion of the Ambazari Bridge is eagerly awaited, as it is expected to significantly reduce traffic congestion in the area. The bridge will not only provide a direct route for commuters but also enhance the overall infrastructure of West Nagpur.

Current Traffic Scenario

With the delay in the bridge’s completion, the current traffic scenario in West Nagpur remains grim. Commuters are forced to take longer, more congested routes, leading to increased travel time and frustration.

Authorities’ Assurance

Authorities have assured residents that every effort is being made to complete the bridge by the new deadline. Cooperation between the contractor and MSETCL is crucial to ensure timely completion.

What’s Next?

Residents are hopeful that the new deadline will be met and the bridge will open for traffic by September 30. This project, once completed, will be a significant milestone in improving the infrastructure of West Nagpur.

The delay in the completion of the Ambazari Bridge is indeed a setback for the residents of West Nagpur. However, the authorities are working tirelessly to ensure that the bridge is completed by the new deadline. The successful completion of this project will bring much-needed relief to the commuters and enhance the overall infrastructure of the area.

1. Why has the completion of the Ambazari Bridge been delayed?

The delay is primarily due to the time required for the concrete to set properly, design issues from the Public Works Design Department, and the presence of power lines running through the construction site.

2. When is the new expected completion date for the Ambazari Bridge?

The new expected completion date for the Ambazari Bridge is September 30.

3. How will the delay impact the residents of West Nagpur?

The delay will continue to cause severe traffic congestion, leading to longer travel times and increased frustration among commuters.

4. What measures are being taken to alleviate traffic issues in West Nagpur?

The Bombay High Court has directed that the road inside VNIT be opened for two-wheelers to alleviate traffic issues. Authorities are also working to expedite the bridge construction.