Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge, an iconic landmark spanning the Hooghly River in Kolkata, India, is a symbol of engineering marvel and historical significance. Completed in 1943, it replaced the old pontoon bridge to meet the increasing traffic demands between Kolkata and Howrah. Designed by the engineering firm Rendel, Palmer & Tritton, this cantilever-suspension hybrid spans 1500 feet with an overall length of 2150 feet, making it one of the largest bridges of its kind in the world. Constructed using 26,000 tons of steel, including high-tensile quality steel, the Howrah Bridge is designed to expand and contract with temperature changes, withstand strong winds, and even earthquakes, as Kolkata falls in a seismic zone. Its supporting towers rise 300 feet high, with a tapering width from 11 feet to 4’6’’. The bridge rests on massive reinforced concrete monoliths, among the largest in the world, with depths reaching 103 feet on the Kolkata side and 88 feet on the Howrah side. The Howrah Bridge is not just a transportation link but also a cultural and architectural landmark, attracting millions of visitors each year. Its silhouette against the Kolkata skyline and its bustling traffic make it an integral part of the city’s identity and heritage