BRO Plans Multi-Cell Box Culvert Bridge Over Kheerganga in Dharali to Prevent Flood Damage

The Disaster That Ravaged Dharali

On August 5 last year, the Kheerganga river in Dharali, Uttarkashi brought a catastrophic flood carrying water and debris that buried the Gangotri Highway under nearly 25 feet of rubble. Several buildings and hotels in the area were severely damaged.

BRO to Build a Permanent Bridge Over the River

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has decided to construct a multi-cell box culvert bridge at the affected site in Dharali. The proposed bridge will have a 40-metre-long span, and BRO will acquire 24 metres of land for its construction. BRO and revenue department officials conducted a site inspection with local residents to assess land boundaries.

Land Acquisition and Community Consultation

Underway

BRO Commander Rajkishor stated that a 12-metre land acquisition survey under the All Weather Road project had already been completed for Dharali. An additional 12 metres of land will be acquired for the bridge construction. A meeting with villagers is planned shortly to take the process forward.

What is a Multi-Cell Box Culvert Bridge?

A multi-cell box culvert bridge is a type of structure most commonly built over rivers and streams. Before designing such a bridge, the construction authority studies 15 years of historical data on the river's water level fluctuations. Based on this analysis, a design is prepared and thick pillars are built in the middle of the river to support the bridge structure.

Your Voice Matters

The Kheerganga flood was a grim reminder of the vulnerability of Himalayan communities to natural disasters. The planned bridge is a step towards building more resilient infrastructure in the region. What are your thoughts on infrastructure development in disaster-prone areas of Uttarakhand? Share your views in the comments section below. Stay tuned with Rangrove News for the latest updates from the hills.