Punalur Suspension Bridge പുനലൂർ തൂക്കുപാലം | |
|---|---|
 Punalur Suspension Bridge | |
| Coordinates | 9°01′01″N 76°55′34″E / 9.017°N 76.926°E |
| Locale | Kollam District, Punalur, India |
| Characteristics | |
| Material | Stone, Wood, Steel etc. |
| Total length | 400 feet (120 m) |
| History | |
| Architect | Albert Henry |
| Opened | 1877 |
| Rebuilt | August–September 2013 |
| Location | |
The Punalur Suspension Bridge, situated in Punalur, India, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering prowess in Kerala. Constructed by the Travancore Government, this historic marvel has evolved into a prominent attraction, seamlessly blending functionality with architectural elegance. With a span of 400 feet (120 m), Engineer Albert Henry strategically constructed the bridge in 1877 to link the town of Punalur to the opposite bank of the Kallada River (forest area). Simultaneously, the design aimed to obstruct the migration of wild animals from the wooded terrain of old Kattupathanapuram into the town.
History and Construction
A notable achievement in South India, the Punalur Suspension Bridge holds the distinction of being the region's inaugural motorable bridge. This suspension bridge, unique in its design with a suspended deck, spans the Kallada River, a remarkable feat in itself. Constructed over a period exceeding six years, the bridge's two spans, held aloft with meticulous precision, facilitated vehicular movement. A captivating tale surrounds its completion — a testament to its structural integrity involved a daring demonstration wherein the engineer and his family traversed the river beneath the bridge in a country boat while six elephants confidently ambled across its surface. Today, the bridge stands as a historical gem, drawing visitors from far and wide.[1]
Reason for the construction
The bridge's inception was rooted in the necessity of connecting areas on the opposite bank of the Kallada River, characterized by dense forests. Moreover, it served the crucial function of acting as a deterrent to wild animals seeking passage across; the intentionally designed vibrations upon traversing dissuaded animals from attempting the crossing.[2]
Method of construction
The Punalur Suspension Bridge is an example of a chain bridge, utilizing chains to support the bridge deck. These chains are firmly anchored to four pits situated at the corners of the bridge. Surrounding these pits are parapets, aesthetically resembling traditional water wells commonly found in Kerala homes. This design characteristic has led to a local fascination, as residents have been intrigued by the water well-like structures at the bridge's corners, inspiring the creation of myths suggesting the existence of interconnected tunnels and iron rods within, further enhancing the mystique surrounding the bridge.
Replacement for the suspension bridge
In 1972, escalating traffic on National Highway 744 prompted the construction of a new, robust concrete bridge adjacent to the Punalur Suspension Bridge. This development addressed the growing demands of modern transportation, ensuring smoother connectivity while preserving the historic suspension bridge.[3]
Renovation
Recent initiatives by the Government of Kerala and ASI have breathed new life into the Punalur Suspension Bridge. The structure underwent meticulous repair and renovation, reinforcing its foundations. Striking a balance between preservation and enhancement, the renovation saw the installation of night lamps, a fresh coat of paint on the steel armrests and stone columns, and the incorporation of new wooden panels sourced from the same Kambakom tree used in its original construction. Additionally, a neighboring park and resting area were created, inviting visitors to appreciate the bridge's rich history in a serene setting..[4]
References
- ↑ "Bridgemeister - 1877 (suspension bridge) - Punalur, Kerala, India". www.bridgemeister.com. Retrieved 13 April 2017.
- ↑ Reason for the construction of the bridge.
- ↑ "New Bridge construction reason". PixelShots. August 2010.
- ↑ "Old British Built Hanging Bridge,Punalur tookupalam,one of two Indian Vehicular Suspension Bridges built by British engineers". PixelShots. August 2010.
External links
Media related to Punalur suspension bridge at Wikimedia Commons