Aluva’s old Marthanda Varma Bridge to open on November 5, minister says

Union Minister Suresh Gopi said the old Marthanda Varma Bridge in Aluva, Kerala, would open to traffic on November 5. He rejected reports that the bridge was in a dangerous condition and described its condition as excellent.

Repair work and traffic arrangements

Gopi said periodic maintenance was necessary and was under way. Micro-concreting work and repairs to the bridge’s expansion joints have been completed. Arch work can continue after traffic resumes.

Bearing work will be carried out later at night, with traffic restricted for a few hours. Gopi said the remaining work would be completed under these arrangements.

Important Facts for Exams

• Shock absorption: The old Marthanda Varma Bridge incorporates giant springs beneath its deck, forming a shock-absorbing system at six locations.
• Arch layout: The old Marthanda Varma Bridge has three arches on each side, a defining feature of its structural design.
• Expansion-joint function: Bridge expansion joints accommodate structural movement, shrinkage and temperature changes while maintaining continuous traffic across the structure.
• Parallel bridge: A newer bridge was built parallel to the old one to increase traffic capacity to four lanes; it opened to the public in June 2002.