Authorities in Gujarat have shut five bridges on the Narmada canal network after they were found unsafe for vehicular movement during an ongoing inspection, officials said on Wednesday.
In addition to the closures, heavy vehicles have been banned from using four other bridges, while district administrations have been directed to shut 36 more bridges for urgent repairs, the state government said in a statement.
The action follows a technical inspection of bridges on the extensive Narmada canal system, which runs through several districts and connects national and state highways as well as village roads. According to Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL), there are around 2,110 such bridges spanning the canal network.
“Visual inspections were carried out to assess the condition of these structures, prevent further damage and extend their lifespan,” the government said. Of the five bridges now closed entirely, two are located in the Morbi district and three in the Surendranagar district.
Officials noted that the bridges are regularly exposed to stress from heavy vehicles and environmental factors, making periodic checks critical for identifying hazards and taking remedial steps.
The state government’s move comes in the wake of a recent bridge collapse near Gambhira village, connecting Anand and Vadodara districts. On July 9, a portion of the 40-year-old bridge gave way, causing multiple vehicles to plunge into the Mahisagar river, resulting in at least 20 deaths.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has directed that repairs of damaged roads and bridges across Gujarat be carried out on a war footing, especially after recent heavy rains.
On Tuesday, he conducted a review of the repair works and asked officials to ensure quality checks during the drive while prioritising citizens’ grievances.
The government said maintenance work is underway on national and state highways as well as internal roads in villages, towns and cities affected by monsoon damage.
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