Hyderabad: The structural stability of approximately 17 bridges across the historic River Musi will soon be examined. As part of the State government’s River Musi Front Development project, steps are being taken to assess the condition of these decades-old bridges and to delineate the buffer zone along the riverbank.
This follows the engagement of consultants to develop a comprehensive master plan for the project. The plan covers a site area of 55 km along the River Musi, excluding a 1 km influence zone on each side, amounting to a total area of 110 square km.
To assess the structural stability of 17 bridges located at various points, the Musi River Front Development Corporation (MRDCL) is enlisting specialized agencies.
Many of these bridges were built decades ago. An official noted that although the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation conducted a structural stability study on a few bridges about 10 years ago, there is a need to reassess various components, especially the stability and safety of the structures. For example, the Puranapul Bridge, constructed in 1578, survived the 1908 floods of the Musi River. The State government now plans to undertake several projects, including beautification and tourism promotion. Therefore, a thorough study of all these bridges must be completed before these initiatives can proceed, the official added.
Agencies will need to inspect various elements such as diaphragms, girders, scaffolding, and piers, and submit a comprehensive report within two months. Based on their findings, higher authorities will decide on necessary repairs and strengthening measures for the bridges, the official added.
In addition to the structural stability study, the Musi River Front Development Corporation (MRDCL) is focusing on delineating the buffer zone along the river. This process aims to define zones for appropriate development plans. The exercise will use Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) technology in conjunction with existing river boundary and buffer data.
