Six-week traffic curbs on Gouranga setu for repairs
The Statesman | 16 November 2025
Movement between Krishnagar and Nabadwip is set to face significant disruption for over six weeks as the Nadia district administration has announced phased traffic restrictions on the Sri Gouranga Setu over the Bhagirathi.
The decision follows an official communication from the Nadia Highway Division No. 1 of the PWD (roads), which will undertake replacement of metallic bearings and allied structural components of the bridge from 15 November to 31 December.
The bridge, located at the 12 km point on the Krishnagar–Nabadwip Dham Road (SH-8), is a vital corridor for commuters, traders, school transport and pilgrims. With the repair work involving delicate engineering processes requiring minimal vibration and controlled load on the deck, the authorities have opted for a staggered traffic regulation plan to ensure safety and smooth execution.
Acting on the PWD’s correspondence, the district magistrate of Nadia, Aneesh Dasgupta has imposed restrictions under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 read with Section 4(1) of the West Bengal Traffic Regulation Act, 1965. The order outlines two phases of restriction during the repair period.
During the complete closure phase, which will be enforced during specific work stages as per the PWD’s schedule, no vehicular movement will be permitted on the bridge. Heavy goods vehicles, buses, and other high-load carriers will remain fully prohibited.
The remaining period will see partial closure, during which only vehicles with gross weight up to 3.00 metric tonnes and height not exceeding 2.25 metres will be allowed to ply, said Meet Kumar, Additional SP, Krishnagar PD. “The administration has mandated a maximum speed limit of 5 kmph for permitted vehicles to reduce structural stress while work continues beneath and around the deck.”
The restrictions will remain in force from 15 November to 31 December or until completion of the restoration work, whichever is earlier. Officials have cautioned that the limitations, particularly during the full-closure stages, may result in congestion on alternative routes connecting Krishnagar and Nabadwip.
The executive engineer of the PWD has been instructed to instal clear “restriction/capacity plying” display boards on both sides of the link road and at additional points identified by the district police.
The district magistrate has also requested the police, RTO and other stakeholders to issue traffic advisories, prepare diversion plans and ensure adequate enforcement well in advance.
While the repair work is expected to improve the long-term structural integrity and safety of the Sri Gouranga Setu, commuters have been advised to prepare for delays and adjust travel plans during the repair period. The administration has stressed the need for public cooperation to ensure smooth traffic management over the next several weeks.