Rs 16cr Nanda Ki Chowki bridge revamp in Doon likely by April 30

Dehradun: The Nanda Ki Chowki bridge over the Tons river, which was washed away during the Sep 15-16 deluge last year, is being reconstructed by the public works department (PWD) in Dehradun and is scheduled for completion by April 30. The project, estimated at over Rs 16 crore, is being funded by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), officials said.A detailed project report (DPR) was prepared in Nov and construction began on Jan 31. According to information obtained by TOI through an RTI filed by Noida-based activist Amit Gupta, a Dehradun-based firm is executing the project. The RTI also revealed that only 30% of the work had been completed as of March 7.While officials maintain that the bridge will be ready by April 30, the deadline is likely to be extended. Authorities said efforts are underway to expedite construction, with additional safety measures being incorporated to prevent future accidents.The bridge, originally built in 1992, was among several structures damaged when rivers in the valley swelled during the disaster. A tractor-trolley carrying 15 people was swept away in the collapse, killing 13, making it the deadliest single incident in Dehradun during those two days.The collapse severed connectivity between Vikas Nagar and Dehradun, following which a temporary crossing was constructed alongside the site and remains in use. "Traffic on the temporary bridge is lighter than before, making the journey smoother. However, it remains a precarious alternative. It was damaged within days of opening and may not be reliable during the monsoon," said a daily commuter.