Bhagalpur: The permanent restoration of Vikramshila Setu, a crucial bridge connecting North and South Bihar across the Ganga, is underway. Workers are cutting and removing three damaged slabs near Pier No. 133 using specialised cutting machines, following the complete suspension of traffic on the bridge from October 1.
The construction agency is deploying workers in three shifts around the clock to complete the restoration within the scheduled timeframe. Alongside construction progress, officials are emphasising environmental protection and compliance with the prescribed safeguards for the Ganga and its aquatic wildlife.
Special Arrangements to Prevent Debris From Entering the Ganga
The restoration work is being conducted under environmental safeguards associated with the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG).
Jitendra Kumar, Managing Director of the Bihar State Bridge Construction Corporation, said the prescribed standards of the Ministry of Jal Shakti and NMCG were being followed to protect the river and safeguard Gangetic dolphins during slab removal.
He said not a single piece of concrete or iron debris would be allowed to fall into the Ganga. A special protective framework made of steel mesh has been installed above the river to collect falling material and help prevent pollution.
According to officials, maintaining safety and completing the work efficiently remain the key priorities.
Cutting of Damaged Slabs Underway
An assistant engineer of the Bridge Construction Corporation said the cutting work involves both the damaged slabs and the associated plain cement concrete (PCC) girders, allowing the weakened portions to be removed safely.
Rescue boats have also been deployed as a precautionary measure during operations over the river.
According to the technical progress report provided by the construction agency, work on removing the first slab was nearly complete, while cutting of the second slab and its railing was underway. Removal of the third damaged slab will begin after the second section is cleared.
The agency is using specialised cutting equipment and protective arrangements to manage the dismantling process while minimising risks to workers and the river environment.
Repair Schedule and December 31 Reopening Target
The administration and the Bridge Construction Corporation have drawn up a schedule for restoration, taking into account the technical challenges that could arise during winter and foggy conditions.
According to the stated work plan, cutting and removal of all three damaged slabs are targeted for completion within the next 15 days. Cleaning of bearing surfaces, installation of new bearings, fitting of steel girders, replacement of expansion joints and casting of the deck slab are scheduled to be completed by the first week of November.
The plan provides for the installation of four new bearings at each pier, along with the associated structural restoration work.
The target for restoring full traffic movement on Vikramshila Setu is December 31, 2026.
However, a local report published on October 12 described the removal of the second slab as progressing slowly and estimated that removing all three slabs could take around 20–25 days at the prevailing pace. The 15-day period should therefore be treated as the stated work-plan target rather than a confirmed completion date. <Cite refs={[“turn738768search1”]} />
Bridge Closure Causes Travel Difficulties
The complete closure of Vikramshila Setu has created difficulties for people travelling between Bhagalpur and Naugachia.
The district administration has appealed to the public to cooperate with the authorities during the restoration period. Commuters have been advised to use alternative ferry services across the river, the Munger Ganga Bridge, and other designated diversion routes where appropriate.
The bridge is an important transport link for the region, and its closure has increased the need for alternative travel arrangements until restoration is completed.
The ongoing work is aimed at restoring the bridge’s permanent structure and ensuring safer movement once it reopens. Protecting the Ganga and its aquatic wildlife remains a key consideration throughout the repair operation.
