The Hindu 04.01.2014

Bridges finally declared open

A view of the Ananda Bridge in Salem that was opened for traffic on Friday.— PHOTO: P. GOUTHAM

Ananda Bridge and Gundu Podum Bridge, constructed across River Tirumanimutharu at a cost of Rs. 8.71 crore were opened for traffic here on Friday.

The Rs.-5.81 crore Ananda Bridge that connects Second Agraharam and Town Railway Station road was constructed at a cost of Rs. 1.51 core by acquiring 10,343.75 sq ft of private land. Approach road was laid along with street lights spending Rs. 1.40 crore.

The Rs.-2.90 crore Gundu Podum Bridge that connects Gundu Podum Street with Trichy Main Road was constructed at Rs. 85 lakh by aquring 4,187 sq ft of private land. Approach road was laid at a cost of Rs. 87 lakh. Minister for Highways and Minor Ports Edappadi K. Palaniswami inaugurated the bridge.

District Collector K. Maharabushanam; Mayor S. Soundappan; Corporation Commissioner M. Ashokan; S. Semmalai, MP; among others attended. The bridges were constructed as part of River Thirumanimutharu Improvement Project during 2007. But land acquisition delayed the laying of approach roads. After seven years, the bridge was completed last month. But was not opened for traffic that resulted in a public outcry.

The Minister inaugurated the renovated classrooms constructed at a cost of Rs. 31 lakh at Guhai Corporation Girls High School, and a renovated overhead water tank at S.R.M. Thottam in Ward 50.