Report: Ravi Shankar Amit.
10 JUL 2026 3:36PM by PIB Patna
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is undertaking the replacement of the expansion joint located between Piers P12 and P13A on the Simaria Six-Lane Bridge, forming part of the Aunta–Simaria (Ganga Bridge with Approach Roads) section of NH-31. The work is being carried out based on the inspection report and recommendations of IIT Bombay.
NHAI Regional Officer, R. Venkateshwarlu, stated that the replacement of the expansion joint between Piers P12 and P13A is being undertaken in accordance with the inspection report and recommendations of IIT Bombay.
He further explained that an expansion joint is an important technical component of a bridge that accommodates movements caused by temperature variations, traffic loads and structural behaviour. Based on periodic technical inspections conducted by experts, such components are repaired or replaced whenever required. This forms an important part of the preventive maintenance of modern bridges, aimed at addressing potential issues in a timely manner while ensuring the bridge’s long-term safety, durability and riding comfort.
Shri Venkateshwarlu further informed that the ongoing maintenance activity is confined to a limited portion of the bridge. Vehicular movement across the bridge continues, and the work is being carried out in accordance with prescribed safety standards while ensuring minimal disruption to traffic. Normal traffic movement will be restored at the earliest upon completion of the maintenance work. He added that the safety of road users and the long-term reliability of National Highway assets remain NHAI’s highest priority. To this end, major bridges and other highway structures are subjected to periodic technical inspections, and maintenance interventions are undertaken in a timely manner based on expert recommendations.
