ABDUL BARI BRIDGE: A HISTORICAL HERITAGE CONNECTING THE COUNTRY FROM 1862 TILL DATE

ABDUL BARI BRIDGE: A HISTORICAL HERITAGE CONNECTING THE COUNTRY FROM 1862 TILL DATE

15-JULY-ENG 6

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA----------------------The Abdul Bari Bridge on the Son River, located in Koilwar town of Bhojpur district of Bihar, is a unique example of history, technical excellence and national unity. Built by the British in the year 1862, this bridge is still playing an important role in connecting two big metropolises of India - Delhi and Kolkata.

History and construction: This historic bridge was constructed by British engineers with the most modern technology of that time. This bridge was used for both rail and road traffic, which is called a multipurpose track bridge. The British had planned to connect the eastern and northern parts of India through this bridge, so that trade, administration and military mobility could be ensured.

Naming in memory of martyr Professor Abdul Bari: This bridge was named after Professor Abdul Bari, a great freedom fighter, with the aim of honoring him.

Professor Abdul Bari was a famous educationist, social reformer and pioneer of the labor movement of Bihar. He was a follower of Mahatma Gandhi and raised the voice of Indian workers. He was martyred before 1947 for raising his voice against the British rule.

In his memory, this bridge is now known as "Abdul Bari Bridge", so that future generations remember his contribution.

Relevance of today: Despite more than 160 years having passed, this bridge is still an important part of the National Highway (NH-30) and railway network. Although a new 6-lane bridge is also under construction parallel to it, the historical importance of Abdul Bari Bridge and its utility even today cannot be denied.

Thousands of vehicles and trains pass through this bridge every day, which is a symbol of its technical strength and engineering prowess.

Structural details of the bridge.

Length: About 1.44 km.

Structure: Steel truss bridge.

Use: Both rail and road traffic.

Location: Koilwar, Bhojpur district, Bihar.

River: Son River.

Tourism and Heritage Conservation: This bridge is not just a means of transport but also a historical heritage that needs conservation. The government and local administration should declare it a national heritage so that its historical, educational and cultural importance can be preserved.

Abdul Bari Bridge is not just a structure made of iron and steel, but it is a symbol that testifies to India's freedom movement, technological history and national unity. It is such a pillar of our history that we feel proud that such heritages are still alive in our country, which tell the story of the past era and are still showing the way to the future.