Hardinge Bridge bears unique symbol of heritage
Despite surpassing its designated lifespan, the historic Hardinge Bridge continues to stand proudly over the mighty Padma River as a witness to history. Built during the British colonial era, this iconic railway bridge has preserved its strength and beauty even after 112 years.
The bridge was inaugurated on March 4, 1915, at Paksey in Ishwardi to facilitate railway transportation across the Padma River. It was named after Lord Hardinge, the then Viceroy of British India.
Even after more than a century, the bridge shows few signs of aging. As a timeless historical landmark, it continues to serve as one of Bangladesh’s most important transportation links, connecting the northern, southern, and eastern regions of the country.
According to the Paksey Divisional Bridge Engineer’s Office, the British government constructed the bridge across the Padma River to improve communication between Kolkata and the regions of Assam, Tripura, Nagaland, and North Bengal.
The bridge stretches 5,894 feet (approximately 1.8 kilometers) and consists of 15 steel girders or spans. It remains a remarkable example of the engineering design and craftsmanship of Sir Robert Gailes. Construction began following preliminary surveys, land acquisition, and feasibility studies conducted in 1909, and was completed in December 1914.
The bridge carries two broad-gauge railway tracks. Each of its 15 main spans stands 52 feet high and weighs approximately 1,250 tons. In addition, there are six land spans-three at each end of the bridge.
The elegant railway structure was built about 40 feet above the highest flood level and 71 feet above the lowest dry-season water level, allowing large vessels, including steamers, to pass beneath it.
During Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971, the Indian Allied Forces bombed and destroyed the bridge’s 12th span on December 14 to sever Pakistani military communications between northern and southern Bengal. The damaged span was reconstructed in 1972 following the original design. Since then, uninterrupted railway operations have continued across the bridge.
The red-painted Hardinge Bridge, a proud bearer of Bangladesh’s history and heritage, continues to captivate visitors. Adjacent to it stands the Lalon Shah Bridge, a road bridge completed in 2004.
Nearby, the cooling towers of the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant the country’s first nuclear power facility-are clearly visible. Together, the Hardinge Bridge, Lalon Shah Bridge, and the nuclear power plant create a spectacular landscape on the banks of the Padma, attracting countless visitors every day.
Aminul Islam Swapan, a businessman from Rooppur, said, “The beauty of Hardinge Bridge can mesmerize anyone. Hundreds of people visit every day to see this historic British-era structure. It is not only a source of pride for our region but also one of Bangladesh’s most remarkable historical landmarks.”
Train driver (Loco Master) Robiul Islam said, “Trains were previously allowed to cross the bridge at 60 kilometers per hour, but the current speed limit is 40 kilometers per hour. Even after exceeding its original lifespan, we do not experience any unusual vibration or structural concerns while crossing the bridge.”
Birbal Mondal, Executive Engineer (Planning and Development) of Western Railway, said, “The bridge is regularly inspected and monitored. Even after 112 years, its structural condition remains satisfactory. With proper maintenance, it can safely support railway operations for another 20 to 25 years.”
Bridge Engineer Anwar Hossain stated that the bridge was originally designed with a lifespan of 100 years. However, a comprehensive study and metallurgical examination conducted in 2015 confirmed that it could remain operational for an additional 25 years. Based on those findings, the bridge is expected to remain functional until 2040. Meanwhile, the government is planning to construct a new railway bridge alongside the existing structure, and feasibility studies and design work are currently underway.
Over the course of history, British India was partitioned into Pakistan, and Bangladesh later emerged as an independent nation. Yet the Hardinge Bridge has continued to fulfill the purpose for which it was built enhancing transportation and contributing to economic development.
As a result, it remains a magnificent symbol of history, heritage, and engineering excellence.
