PMC Proposes Demolition of 55-Year-Old Bridge Near Omkareshwar Temple Due to Safety Concerns and Flood Risks |
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has proposed the demolition of a 55-year-old bridge located near the historic Omkareshwar Temple in the city’s central region. The bridge’s deteriorating condition and its low-lying structure are obstructing the river flow in the Mutha riverbed
The 55-year-old bridge connecting Omkareshwar to the Vruddheshwar-Siddheshwar Ghat is no longer considered safe for use. While locals continue to use it for activities such as washing vehicles and fishing, its relevance as a transit route has diminished due to the availability of two nearby alternatives, the Maharshi Vitthal Ramji Shinde Bridge and the Jayantrao Tilak Bridge.
According to PMC officials, the bridge obstructs water flow during monsoons by trapping debris and water hyacinths, increasing flood risks. The structure, which frequently develops potholes, would require Rs39 lakh in repairs to extend its lifespan by just eight years. As a result, the civic body has decided to propose its demolition instead of incurring ongoing maintenance costs.
Demotion aligns with RFD Project
The demolition aligns with the city’s riverfront development project, aiming to reduce flood risks by restoring the natural flow of the Mutha River. The proposal is currently under review by the City Improvement Committee and will require approvals from higher committees before proceeding.
Yuvraj Deshmukh, Chief Superintendent Engineer of the Project Department, said, “The bridge will be demolished once it’s been sanctioned, we have proposed the idea and in the coming 15 days it will be demolished as it is unsafe for use.”
With a length of 50 metres and a width of 4.7 metres, the bridge has outlived its usefulness as a transportation link. The PMC’s Project Department has stated that maintaining the structure would be an unnecessary financial burden, especially given its limited usage and the availability of other crossings.
