By ARUN PRATAP SINGH
DEHRADUN, 26 Apr: The construction of Bajrang Setu, Uttarakhand’s first glass-path bridge, situated adjacent to the iconic Lakshman Jhula in Rishikesh, is about to be completed soon as finishing touches are being given to the bridge. The bridge, which connects the Tehri and Pauri districts across the sacred Ganga, has been joined from both ends. Only the installation of the transparent glass footpath, railings, painting, and illumination works now remain and hopefully, this work would be over soon. And it is likely to be inaugurated soon.
Speaking to Garhwal Post, Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal said that the Bajrang Setu is likely to be opened to the public and tourists next month, ahead of its final scheduled completion date of May 31, Uniyal had recently conducted an inspection of the bridge. He expressed great satisfaction with the pace of the work. He added that the bridge would be opened soon for the public, and that it would serve not only as a bridge but as a new identity for Rishikesh on the world map.
It may be recalled that the Bajrang Setu is being constructed with a total length of 132 metres and a width of 5 metres. It features transparent glass walkways, each 1.5 metres wide and made of 65-millimetre-thick tempered glass, along the both sides of the bridge. Notably, the entrances of the bridge are designed in the architectural likeness of the sanctum of Kedarnath Dham, blending sacred symbolism with modern engineering.
Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) Vijay Mogha shared with the media that this is the first glass-path bridge of Uttarakhand. He added that the temple-shaped pillars on both sides are almost complete. The structure has been secured upon steel cables, and foundational works have been concluded. The installation of the glass pathway and safety railings would also be completed soon.
It may be recalled that the construction of Bajrang Setu was commenced in the year 2022 under the aegis of the Public Works Department, Narendra Nagar Division. Originally, the completion was slated for July 2023, but due to various technical and environmental challenges, the deadline was extended first to December 2024, and finally to May 2025. The total cost of construction is estimated at Rs 68.86 crores. Once inaugurated, Bajrang Setu would not only accommodate pedestrians but also light four-wheeled vehicles, thereby easing connectivity between the two districts.
With its gleaming glass pathways offering breathtaking views of the Ganga, Bajrang Setu is set to become a major attraction for devotees, tourists, and adventure seekers alike. It is also expected to augment Rishikesh’s reputation as the Yoga Capital of the World and a prime destination for spiritual and adventure tourism.
