Visitors Limited on the Atal Overbridge after Morbi Disaster

AHMEDABAD: The recent disaster in the Morbi region of Gujarat has forced the authorities to limit the number of visitors on the newly built Atal Bridge in the same state.

The Atal Bridge has been created as a tourist attraction near the Sabarmati river. Apart from being a picture perfect destination, this attraction also aims to showcase the serenity of the region. And its management is handled by the Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Limited (SRFDCL).

Sabarmati Riverfront Development Corporation Limited has issued a list of measures to limit the number of visitors on the bridge. Some of the key changes include entry charges are now being levied and visit timings have been fixed. Playing any form of music, any singing, dancing or other recreations are now banned aboard the Atal bridge. Pets are also banned on the bridge from now on. These rules were mentioned in a notice issued by the committee.

A separate statement was issued by the organization which limits the number of visitors on the bridge to a maximum of 3000 per hour. Although the capacity of the structure has been mentioned as 12000 people at a time, the authorities took this step as a prediction against any more Morbi like incidents in the state. Built with an approximate cost of Rs 74 Cr, this bridge was opened for tourists about two months back and it gained immense popularity among locals and tourists alike.

As for the disaster that occurred in Morbi, the presence of excessive crowds is said to have overloaded the bridge. Unruly visitors who were trying to shake and sway the suspension bridge have been noted as another possible reason for its falling. The state government has already arrested the contractors who were associated with the renovation measures of the century-old bridge. The Prime Minister also plans to visit the site of disaster today to take stock of the situation.

 Also Read: Assam: Joint Secretary Suspended After Arrest on Charges of Bribery

Also Watch :