📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Pinakpani
Politics
West Bengal Minister Requests Safety Audit of Damodar Railway Bridge
✍️ ET Infra
🗓 03 Nov 2026, 04:32 AM
👁 24
West Bengal’s transport minister has written to Indian Railways asking for a comprehensive safety audit of the Damodar bridge, citing concerns over its structural integrity.
The transport minister of West Bengal has formally addressed a letter to the Ministry of Railways, urging a detailed safety audit of the Damodar railway bridge that spans the Damodar River. The minister highlighted recent assessments that suggest the bridge may be vulnerable to structural stress, especially during monsoon floods.
The Damodar bridge is a critical link on the Howrah–Delhi main line, facilitating the movement of both passenger and freight trains across the state. Any disruption could affect regional commerce and daily commutes for thousands of travelers.
In the letter, the minister requested that railway engineers conduct an immediate inspection, review maintenance records, and, if necessary, undertake remedial work to ensure the bridge meets safety standards. The railways have acknowledged receipt of the request and indicated that a technical team will be deployed within the next week.
Stakeholders, including local business groups and commuter associations, have welcomed the move, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent potential accidents.
The outcome of the audit will determine whether the bridge requires reinforcement, speed restrictions, or temporary closure for repairs, underscoring the importance of infrastructure vigilance in the region.
The Damodar bridge is a critical link on the Howrah–Delhi main line, facilitating the movement of both passenger and freight trains across the state. Any disruption could affect regional commerce and daily commutes for thousands of travelers.
In the letter, the minister requested that railway engineers conduct an immediate inspection, review maintenance records, and, if necessary, undertake remedial work to ensure the bridge meets safety standards. The railways have acknowledged receipt of the request and indicated that a technical team will be deployed within the next week.
Stakeholders, including local business groups and commuter associations, have welcomed the move, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent potential accidents.
The outcome of the audit will determine whether the bridge requires reinforcement, speed restrictions, or temporary closure for repairs, underscoring the importance of infrastructure vigilance in the region.