Chandigarh, November 3, 2026:The Governor of Punjab and Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh, today laid the foundation stone of a High-Level Bridge over Sukhna Choe at Bapu Dham, Chandigarh, to improve road connectivity between Manimajra and Sector 26.The Administrator was accompanied by Chief Secretary, U.T. Chandigarh, Shri Hiriadka Rajesh Prasad. Administrator, U.T. Chandigarh Lays Foundation Stone of ₹12.25-Crore High-Level Bridge over Sukhna Choe at Bapu DhamThe bridge is being constructed at an estimated cost of ₹12.25 crore and is targeted for completion within 12 months from the commencement of construction work. It will provide safer, smoother and uninterrupted connectivity to commuters throughout the year.

The new bridge will address the problems of traffic congestion and frequent disruption of connectivity during the monsoon season. The existing causeway is narrow and has limited capacity to handle traffic, leading to congestion, particularly during peak hours. It also gets submerged when the water level of Sukhna Lake rises and its floodgates are opened during the monsoon, forcing the closure of vehicular movement. The high-level bridge will overcome these issues and ensure that traffic between Manimajra and Sector 26 continues to move without interruption, even during the monsoon.

The project includes the construction of a 450-metre-long road stretch, comprising a 57-metre-long bridge and approach roads on both sides. The bridge will have two carriageways, each 9.50 metres wide, and dedicated pedestrian-cum-cycle tracks measuring 2.50 metres on either side. Safety features such as railings and crash barriers will also be installed. It will connect with the existing four-lane approach roads to ensure smooth movement of vehicles.

The project will improve road safety, ease traffic congestion and strengthen connectivity between important parts of the city, benefiting daily commuters and residents of the area.

The foundation stone laying ceremony was attended by Ms. Prerna Puri, IAS, Secretary Engineering; Er. C.B. Ojha, Chief Engineer, U.T. Chandigarh; and other senior officers of the Chandigarh Administration.