Howrah Bridge | Kolkata

Howrah Bridge, officially known as Rabindra Setu, is an iconic cantilever bridge spanning the Hooghly River in Kolkata, West Bengal. Completed in 1943, it connects the city of Kolkata with Howrah and serves as a vital transportation artery. Beyond its functional role, the bridge is a cultural and architectural symbol of Kolkata, representing the city’s industrial heritage and urban dynamism.

Architectural Layout

The bridge is a cantilever structure made entirely of steel, notable for its engineering and scale:

Length and Span: Approximately 705 meters long and 60 meters above the river, accommodating heavy traffic and river navigation.

Cantilever Design: Constructed without nuts and bolts, relying on riveted steel connections, exemplifying early 20th-century engineering ingenuity.

Roadway: Supports multiple lanes for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles, allowing smooth movement across the river.

River Access: The bridge’s elevation ensures that large ships and ferries can pass underneath without obstruction.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Howrah Bridge is not only a vital transportation link but also a symbol of Kolkata’s resilience and identity. During World War II, it played a strategic role in logistics and defense. The bridge is celebrated in literature, cinema, and photography, symbolizing the bustling life of the city and the Hooghly River’s importance.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to Howrah Bridge experience a blend of urban energy and architectural marvel. Walking across the bridge provides panoramic views of the Hooghly River, ferries, and riverside activity, capturing the rhythm of Kolkata’s daily life. The bridge is particularly striking at sunrise and sunset, when the steel structure contrasts dramatically against the river and sky. Observing the constant flow of vehicles, pedestrians, and river traffic offers an immersive sense of the city’s vitality and history.