Railway Bridge Upgrade: 73-year-old bridge renovated in Uttar Pradesh to boost train speeds
Indian Railways has successfully finished the renovation of a 73-year-old bridge located in the Chunar-Chopan section of Uttar Pradesh. The bridge, numbered 131, falls under the Prayagraj Division of the North Central Railway. This infrastructure project was designed to increase train speeds and reduce the total travel time for passengers on this important route.
Key features of the renovated bridge in Chunar-Chopan section
The engineering team led by Deputy Chief Bridge Engineer I.P.S. Yadav replaced the old structure with modern Pre-stressed Concrete (PSC) Girder Slabs. The project started with the first span being laid on February 27, 2026, and the entire work was completed by March 8, 2026. The new structure uses more durable materials that require less regular maintenance compared to the previous design.
| Feature | Old Specification | New Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Year | 1953 | 2026 (Renovated) |
| Loading Standard | 1926 BGML Loading | 1976 RBG Loading |
| Speed Limit | 30 kmph | Increased Speed |
| Number of Spans | 5 Spans | 6 Spans |
| Material Used | Old Steel Structure | Pre-stressed Concrete Slabs |
How does the upgrade benefit train passengers and freight operations
Before the renovation, trains had to slow down to 30 kmph while crossing this bridge because of its age and old loading standards. The new bridge conforms to the Revised Broad Gauge Loading-1976, which allows it to handle much heavier freight trains and faster mail or express trains. General Manager Naresh Pal Singh and DRM Rajneesh Agarwal praised the railway team for completing this technical task safely and within the scheduled time. This development ensures a more secure and efficient journey for everyone traveling through the Prayagraj Division.