Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a city that beautifully blends heritage with modernity. Amidst its vibrant streets, colonial architecture, bustling markets, and soulful art, stands one of the greatest engineering marvels of the 20th century—the Howrah Bridge. Known officially as the Rabindra Setu, this colossal cantilever bridge is not just a means of crossing the Hooghly River but also a living symbol of Bengal’s history, resilience, and progress.
In this detailed blog, we will explore the history of Howrah Bridge, its architectural brilliance, how to reach it, timings, entry fees, and why every traveler must experience this iconic landmark.
History of Howrah Bridge
The story of the Howrah Bridge begins in the 19th century when the British realized the need for a permanent structure to connect Kolkata (then Calcutta) with Howrah. Prior to the bridge, the two banks of the Hooghly River were connected by ferry services, which became insufficient with the rapid growth of trade and population.
- Initial Proposals: As early as 1862, plans for a bridge were considered. The Bengal government set up a committee to explore possibilities, but it took decades for the idea to materialize.
- Planning Stage: In 1905, the idea of a floating pontoon bridge was introduced. It was completed in 1874, but it was temporary and could not withstand the heavy traffic of the city. By the early 20th century, the demand for a permanent bridge grew stronger.
- Construction Era: In 1935, the Braithwaite, Burn & Jessop Construction Company (BBJ) was entrusted with building a massive cantilever bridge. The construction began in 1936 and was completed in 1942 during World War II.
- Inauguration: The bridge was officially opened to the public on 3rd February 1943 and was named Howrah Bridge. In 1965, it was renamed Rabindra Setu in honor of the Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore, but people still popularly call it Howrah Bridge.
For more than 80 years, the Howrah Bridge has stood tall as one of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world, carrying millions of vehicles and pedestrians every day.
Architectural Marvel of Howrah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge is not only historically significant but also a masterpiece of engineering. Let’s understand why it is considered a wonder:
1. Cantilever Design
The bridge is a cantilever truss bridge, meaning it is supported only at the ends while the middle portion hangs free without any supporting pillars in the river. This design was chosen to avoid obstructing the Hooghly’s busy shipping channel.
2. Massive Dimensions
- Total length: 705 meters (2,313 feet)
- Central span: 457 meters (1,500 feet) – making it the longest cantilever bridge of its kind at the time of construction.
- Width: 71 feet (22 meters) with footpaths on either side.
3. Materials Used
- Over 26,500 tons of steel were used.
- The major supplier was Tata Steel, marking a proud moment for Indian industry.
4. No Nuts & Bolts
- Remarkably, the bridge was built using rivets instead of nuts and bolts, enhancing its durability.
5. Load Capacity
- Carries over 100,000 vehicles and around 150,000 pedestrians daily.
- Despite being decades old, it still withstands massive traffic loads.
6. A Living Landmark
At night, the Howrah Bridge glows with colorful LED lights, turning it into a breathtaking sight, especially when reflected on the Hooghly River. Its grandeur makes it one of the most photographed bridges in India.
Cultural and Emotional Significance
The Howrah Bridge is not just a piece of infrastructure; it is deeply woven into the identity of Kolkata. It has been featured in numerous films, poems, and stories. For Bengalis, it symbolizes resilience, connecting lives and dreams across the river. Many first-time visitors to Kolkata consider their journey incomplete without standing on this historic bridge.
It also represents Kolkata’s role as a trade and cultural hub, linking Howrah railway station (one of the busiest in India) to the heart of the city.
How to Reach Howrah Bridge
Reaching Howrah Bridge is quite easy, as it is centrally located and well connected. Here’s a breakdown:
By Air
- The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Dum Dum), about 20 km away.
- From the airport, you can hire taxis, app-based cabs, or take buses to reach the bridge.
By Train
- Howrah Railway Station is right next to the bridge. It is one of India’s largest and busiest railway terminals, with trains connecting major cities across the country.
- After stepping out of the station, the bridge is just a short walk away.
By Metro
- The nearest metro station is Mahakaran Metro Station on the East-West corridor (Green Line).
- From there, the bridge is within walking distance.
By Bus
- Numerous state-run and private buses stop near Howrah Bridge.
- Major bus terminals such as Esplanade and Howrah Maidan provide easy access.
By Taxi/Auto
- Yellow ambassador taxis, a trademark of Kolkata, are widely available. You can also book app-based rides like Ola and Uber.
By Ferry
- For a scenic approach, take a ferry ride from Babu Ghat or Millennium Park across the Hooghly River. This gives you a stunning view of the bridge from the water.
Timings and Entry Fees
One of the best parts about visiting Howrah Bridge is its accessibility.
- Timings: The bridge is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether it’s early morning with mist rising from the Hooghly or late at night with the bridge glowing in lights, it offers unique charm throughout the day.
- Entry Fee: There is no entry fee for crossing or visiting the bridge. It is a public bridge used for daily commuting.
Best Time to Visit Howrah Bridge
Although you can visit anytime, here are a few tips:
- Early Morning: The sight of sunrise over the Hooghly River is mesmerizing. You’ll also experience fewer crowds.
- Evening/Night: The bridge illuminated with colorful lights offers a magical view, perfect for photography.
- Festivals: During Durga Puja and New Year, the entire area around the bridge comes alive with festivities and lights.
Nearby Attractions
A trip to Howrah Bridge can be combined with several nearby attractions:
- Howrah Railway Station – an architectural marvel itself.
- Mullick Ghat Flower Market – Asia’s largest flower market, located just under the bridge.
- Eden Gardens – the iconic cricket stadium.
- Indian Museum – the oldest museum in India.
- Marble Palace – a heritage mansion showcasing colonial opulence.
Travel Tips for Visitors
1. Photography of the bridge from certain points may be restricted, so follow local guidelines.
2. Best views can be enjoyed from Prinsep Ghat, Babu Ghat, or a ferry ride.
3. Keep your belongings safe, as the area is very crowded.
4. Wear comfortable footwear if you plan to walk across the bridge.
Conclusion
The Howrah Bridge is not just a structure of steel and rivets—it is the beating heart of Kolkata. From carrying millions of daily commuters to standing as a silent witness to the city’s history, culture, and struggles, it remains one of India’s most iconic landmarks. Whether you are a history lover, a photography enthusiast, or just a curious traveler, visiting the Howrah Bridge is an unforgettable experience.
Standing on its deck, feeling the breeze from the Hooghly, and watching the city move around you, you realize why the Howrah Bridge is truly a bridge of life.
