Have you ever wondered about the mammoth structures that support our trains while offering panoramic views that take your breath away? Today, we’re diving into the world of India’s longest railway bridges, which are true engineering spectacles stretching over rivers, valleys, and everything in between. You can book train tickets to experience the beautiful railway bridges in India. So, what are you waiting for? Explore a scenic journey across the top 10 longest railway bridges in India.
List of India’s Longest Railway Bridges
India’s longest railway bridges enhance connectivity across vast geographical regions and streamline the travel experience. They facilitate direct routes that reduce travel time and congestion by bridging critical gaps over rivers and valleys. With growing technological advancements, there is not only infrastructure to support railways but also enhancement in the booking system. From checking PNR status to tracking train status, Indian railways offer a hassle-free travelling experience for passengers. Together, these engineering marvels and digital tools dramatically improve the efficiency and reliability of train travel, making journeys predictable and comfortable for millions of travellers across India. Below are some of the famous longest railway bridges in India.
1. Bogibeel Bridge
The mighty Bogibeel Bridge in Assam doubles as a road and rail bridge over the Brahmaputra River. This behemoth, spanning a whopping 4.94 kilometres, holds the title of the longest combined road and rail bridge in India. Opened in 2018, it facilitates easier connectivity between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh and stands as a testament to modern engineering.
2. Vembanad Rail Bridge
The Vembanad Rail Bridge is a treat to the eyes and the second-longest railway bridge in India. Stretching over 4.62 kilometres, this bridge connects Edappally and Vallarpadam in Kochi. It’s part of the International Container Transshipment Terminal and is crucial for freight movement, but that doesn’t stop it from offering stunning backwater views.
3. Pamban Bridge
Pamban Bridge is an iconic structure that connects Rameswaram on Pamban Island to mainland India. This 2.065-kilometre bridge is known for its length and breathtaking architecture, including a section that lifts up to allow ship movement. The sea beneath, the tales of engineering challenges overcome, and the sheer beauty make Pamban a favourite among railway buffs.
4. Godavari Arch Bridge
The stunning Godavari Arch Bridge crosses the Godavari River in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh. This bridge, stretching about 2.7 kilometres, is known for its bowstring-girder arch design, which is as functional as it is eye-pleasing. If you’re ever travelling by train in the region, prepare your cameras because the views are picture-perfect.
5. Sharavathi Bridge
The Sharavathi Bridge trails through the Western Ghats of Karnataka. This 2.060 kilometre marvel is an essential part of the Konkan Railway and offers stunning views of the dense forest and the river it crosses. During the monsoon season, it’s a lush green spectacle.
6. Mahi Bajaj Sagar Bridge
Spanning the Mahi River in Rajasthan, the Mahi Bajaj Sagar Bridge extends over 1.4 kilometres. While it might not boast the lush greenery of the Western Ghats, the arid beauty surrounding this bridge has a charm of its own, especially during the golden hours of dawn and dusk.
7. Jubilee Bridge
Though not among the very longest, the Jubilee Bridge over the Hooghly River in West Bengal deserves a mention for its historical value and its impressive length of over 1.2 kilometres. This old engineering work was recently replaced with a new structure, but the legacy and the tales remain as fascinating as ever.
8. Nehru Setu
Crossing the Son River in Bihar, Nehru Setu was once among the longest bridges of its type in India. Stretching approximately 3.065 kilometres, it served the railway network before a new bridge took over its heavy-duty traffic. The old bridge still stands, a reminder of the past and a spot for some beautiful river views.
9. Mandovi Bridge
The Mandovi Bridge in Goa is another gem on the Konkan Railway route. This bridge, approximately 1.3 kilometres long, crosses the Mandovi River and is a crucial link between North and South Goa. It’s a sight to behold during the monsoon when the river is brimming, and the surroundings are lush green.
10. Chenab Bridge
The Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir is set to be the world’s highest railway bridge, stretching over 1.3 kilometres across the Chenab River. Once completed, it will not only be an engineering milestone but also a breathtaking addition to the region’s scenic beauty.
Conclusion
Exploring these engineering marvels is like taking a tour through the pages of modern technological achievements combined with the natural beauty of India. Each bridge has its own story and offers a unique glimpse into the ingenuity and resilience of human endeavour. So next time you plan a railway journey in India, look out for these titanic tracks that are more than just routes; they are destinations in their own right.