Howrah Bridge Kolkata – History, Attractions, Nearest Metro, Facts
Howrah Bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, stands as an iconic landmark in Kolkata and one of the most recognized symbols of the city. Spanning the Hooghly River, this massive cantilever bridge connects the bustling city of Kolkata with Howrah, its sister city. Its impressive architecture and vital role in transportation have made Howrah Bridge an engineering marvel and a cultural symbol of Kolkata.
History of Howrah Bridge
The concept of a bridge across the Hooghly River emerged in the mid-19th century due to growing trade and the rising population in Kolkata. Initially, the British constructed a pontoon bridge, but by the early 20th century, the need for a more permanent structure became evident.
Construction of Howrah Bridge
Construction of Howrah Bridge started in 1936, led by the Braithwaite, Burn & Jessop Construction Company. Designed by Rendel, Palmer, and Tritton, the bridge took nearly seven years to complete, officially opening to the public in 1943. Authorities renamed it after Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore in 1965, though people still refer to it as Howrah Bridge.
Architecture and Design
Howrah Bridge ranks as the sixth-longest cantilever bridge globally, stretching 705 meters (2,312 feet) without any support piers in the water. Its unique design includes rivets, not bolts, to hold the entire structure together.
- Cantilever Design: The cantilever structure evenly distributes the load, allowing the bridge to support immense weight. Two main towers on either side of the river hold the roadway without placing any piers in the river.
- Material: The bridge required over 26,500 tons of steel, much of which came from Tata Steel, ensuring the project remained entirely Indian-built.
- Capacity: Every day, the bridge handles more than 100,000 vehicles and over a million pedestrians, serving as a critical link between Howrah and Kolkata.
Cultural Significance
Howrah Bridge represents more than just an engineering accomplishment; it embodies Kolkata’s cultural identity. The bridge has appeared in numerous films, songs, and literature. Satyajit Ray’s films and Bollywood classics like “Howrah Bridge” (1958) often feature the structure, symbolizing the city’s energy and vibrancy.
Howrah Bridge Today
Howrah Bridge continues to be one of the busiest bridges in the world. Despite its age, it handles heavy traffic efficiently, supporting both pedestrians and vehicles. This bridge stands as a testament to India’s engineering prowess and resilience.
Key Attractions Around Howrah Bridge
The bridge itself draws countless visitors, but the areas surrounding Howrah Bridge offer a variety of experiences that showcase Kolkata’s rich history and culture.
Howrah Railway Station
Located at the Howrah end of the bridge, Howrah Railway Station ranks as one of the largest and oldest railway stations in India. Serving millions of passengers daily, it offers an impressive view of Howrah Bridge from its platforms.
Malik Ghat Flower Market
Beneath the bridge, the Malik Ghat Flower Market thrives as one of Asia’s largest flower markets. This vibrant market offers a burst of colors and fragrances, making it a favorite spot for tourists and photographers.
Ferry Rides on the Hooghly River
Ferry rides on the Hooghly River provide panoramic views of Howrah Bridge, especially during sunset or sunrise. The ferry service connects various parts of Kolkata and Howrah, offering a peaceful and scenic alternative to the busy roads.
How to Reach Howrah Bridge
Howrah Bridge is easily accessible from both Kolkata and Howrah.
- By Road: Public buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws frequently cross Howrah Bridge.
- By Train: Travelers can access the bridge from Howrah Railway Station, located on the Howrah side.
- By Metro: The nearest metro stop to Howrah Bridge is Mahakaran Metro Station on Kolkata’s East-West Metro Line.
Best Time to Visit Howrah Bridge
The best time to visit Howrah Bridge is early in the morning or late in the evening when traffic is lighter. Additionally, sunrise and sunset offer stunning views of the bridge against the backdrop of the river and city skyline.
Fun Facts About Howrah Bridge
- Rivets, Not Bolts: Rivets hold the bridge together, a rare feat in modern engineering.
- Pedestrian Traffic: Over one million pedestrians cross the bridge daily, making it an essential part of Kolkata’s daily life.
- Durability: Howrah Bridge withstood Japanese bomb attacks during World War II, proving its incredible strength and resilience.
Conclusion
Howrah Bridge represents much more than a means of transportation. It plays an integral role in Kolkata’s history, connecting the past with the present. Whether admiring its engineering brilliance, exploring the surrounding markets, or simply crossing it as part of daily life, Howrah Bridge continues to awe and inspire.
FAQs About Howrah Bridge
- Why is Howrah Bridge famous?
- Howrah Bridge stands out for its cantilever design, cultural significance, and role as a key transportation link between Howrah and Kolkata.
- Can pedestrians walk across Howrah Bridge?
- Yes, pedestrians can walk across Howrah Bridge. Over a million people cross it daily on foot.
- When did construction of Howrah Bridge start?
- Construction began in 1936 and the bridge opened to the public in 1943.
- What’s the best way to experience Howrah Bridge?
- A ferry ride on the Hooghly River offers a unique perspective, providing stunning views of the bridge, especially during sunrise and sunset.
- Is Howrah Bridge also called Rabindra Setu?
- Yes, it was officially renamed Rabindra Setu in 1965 in honor of Rabindranath Tagore, but most people still refer to it as Howrah Bridge.
