Work on a parallel bridge to Shivaji Bridge on Panchaganga River, to connect Kolhapur to Konkan area in Maharashtra, is likely to start from next week. The bridge work has been taken up by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
NHAI has sent the proposal of Rs 13.5 crore to the Central government considering the cost overrun during the construction period of the bridge. The primary testing of the site has been completed and the strata analysis has found it perfect for construction.
The proposed new bridge will help to reduce the strain on the existing Shivaji Bridge since traffic on the route has increased. The work is sanctioned by the central government and the bridge will be 130 metres in length.