Gujarat CM Approves Two New Bridges in Narmada to Boost Tribal Connectivity

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has approved the construction of two new bridges in Narmada district at a total cost of Rs 302.40 crore. The bridges will connect key ghats, improving daily commuting and access to education for residents across 11 tribal villages. They will also significantly shorten the route for the annual Uttarvahini Parikrama pilgrimage, saving time and fuel for lakhs of devotees. The project is part of broader state efforts to enhance socio-economic development in remote tribal regions.

Key Points: New Bridges in Narmada to Improve Tribal Area Connectivity

  • Improves road access for 18,000+ residents
  • Reduces travel time for students & commuters
  • Cuts 17 km detour for Uttarvahini Parikrama
  • Part of broader tribal infrastructure development
2 min read

Narmada to get two new bridges to improve connectivity for tribals

Gujarat CM sanctions two new bridges worth Rs 302 crore in Narmada district to improve access for 18,000+ residents across 11 tribal villages.

"The construction of these two bridges will significantly improve connectivity in the tribal areas of Narmada district. - Official Statement"

Narmada/Gandhinagar, Feb 24 Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday approved the construction of two new bridges in Narmada district, a move aimed at improving road connectivity for over 18,000 residents across 11 villages in the tribal region. The project has been sanctioned at a total cost of Rs 302.40 crore.

The decision was taken to ensure smoother access between district and taluka headquarters, particularly for villages in the northern and southern parts of the district, including Tilakvada, Vasan, Rengan, Rampura, Mangrol, and Shehrav.

According to officials, Rs 123.13 crore has been allocated for the construction of a bridge connecting Rengan Ghat to Rampura Ghat, while Rs 179.27 crore has been sanctioned for a bridge linking Shehrav Ghat to Tilakvada Ghat.

These structures are expected to facilitate daily commuting for residents, as well as provide uninterrupted access to schools and colleges even during the monsoon season.

"The construction of these two bridges will significantly improve connectivity in the tribal areas of Narmada district. Residents, including students and daily commuters, will have safer and faster routes, reducing travel time considerably," the official statement said.

In addition to daily transport benefits, the bridges are expected to aid large-scale community events.

The annual Uttarvahini Parikrama, held in Chaitra month in Nandod and Tilakvada talukas, attracts lakhs of devotees.

The new bridges will reduce the total detour distance by 17 kilometres for participants, resulting in significant time and fuel savings. Local officials have emphasised the strategic importance of the project in enhancing infrastructure in the tribal regions.

The improved connectivity is anticipated to support socio-economic activities, ensure easier access to healthcare and education, and streamline movement for residents and visitors alike.

Work on the two bridges is expected to begin shortly, with the government indicating close monitoring to ensure timely completion.

The project forms part of broader efforts to strengthen transportation infrastructure in the state's tribal areas, ensuring that development reaches remote villages and improves the overall quality of life for residents.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally some focus on tribal area infrastructure! The Uttarvahini Parikrama detour reduction is a smart move – will help devotees a lot. My only concern is timely completion and quality of construction. We've seen projects get delayed and budgets inflate. Hope this one is monitored closely.
D
David E
As someone who has travelled in this region, the connectivity is indeed challenging. A 17km reduction in detour is massive for local logistics. This should boost local economies too. Good step for inclusive development.
A
Anjali F
Bridges are more than just concrete. They connect people to opportunities – education, healthcare, markets. This is real *vikas* (development) for the tribal communities. Hope the contractors hire local labour from these villages.
M
Michael C
The cost seems very high for two bridges. While the intent is good, there should be more transparency on the cost breakdown. Is this the standard rate, or are there inefficiencies? Public money must be used judiciously.
K
Kavya N
My cousin teaches in a school near Tilakvada. She says students from the other side of the river often can't come for weeks during rains. This bridge will change their lives. Education should never be interrupted. A very positive step! 👍

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