(a) whether the Railways has taken note of the dilapidated condition of the existing road-cum-railway bridge on the river Godavari at Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the Government is considering for construction of a new road-cum-railway bridge in its place;
(c) if so the details thereof; and
(d) the preventive steps taken by the Government to avoid any untoward incident there?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
(SHRI RAJEN GOHAIN)
(a): The condition of the existing rail-cum-road bridge across the river Godavari between Rajahmundry and Kovvur is sound. The bridge is safe to permit traffic movement over it.
(b): No, Madam.
(c): Does not arise.
(d): The bridge is regularly inspected and maintained based on condition as well as laid down codal provisions. In addition, the following preventive steps have also been taken on the bridge to avoid any untoward incident:
• Speed restriction of 50 kmph has been imposed on the Rail portion of the Bridge for Passenger train operation due to sharp curvature on the approach of the bridge; and
• The Road portion of the Bridge is designed for 10.2 Tonne load and the width of the road is 6.85 metre. To avoid any unusual occurrence on the bridge due to the sharp curvature on approaches, a speed restriction of 40 kmph has been imposed by the Road Authorities of Government of Andhra Pradesh. Vehicles with heavier than designed loads are not permitted on the bridge.
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