Ellis Bridge
Ellis Bridge
We become intrigued with Ahmedabad's hectic yet alluring scenery as we drive over the magnificently lit Ellis Bridge, which overlooks the meandering Sabarmati River. This architectural wonder serves as a constant reminder of the city's illustrious past and an emblem of its rich legacy.
The enthralling tale of
Ahmedabad's Ellis Bridge
Beginnings as
Lakadiya Bridge
During their reign, the British chose to build a bridge over the Sabarmati River to connect the city's eastern and western regions in an effort to further the industrial revolution. Thus, the Lakadiya Bridge—a wood structure—was built in 1870–1871. However, when the building was destroyed by the disastrous floods in 1875, its demise was inevitable.
Understanding how important the bridge was for both transportation and future growth, the British government decided to build a new steel bridge that would be able to endure the difficult environmental conditions.
The inception of
Ellis
Bridge
The project was assigned to master engineer Himmatlal Dhirajram Bhachech. Birmingham was the source of the steel imported for the new bridge. The structure was finished in 1892. The name of the commissioner of the north zone, Sir Barrow Helbert Ellis, was boldly displayed on this bowstring arch truss bridge. It's interesting to note that Himmatlal spent less than expected—Rs 4.07 lakhs—to achieve this feat.
The British were taken aback by this accomplishment, which raised questions about the bridge's construction. But after a close examination, they found that the bridge exceeded their expectations and met them as well, which is why Himmatlal was bestowed with the title of Rao Sahib in recognition of his great efforts to save government money.
In addition to acting as a means of crossing the river, Ellis Bridge significantly influenced the growth of the residential and industrial districts that surrounded the former walled city. It witnessed important historical occurrences and evolved into a symbol of transformation.
A bridge that reshaped Ahmedabad
The bridge was illuminated with a shimmering glow in 1921 when a tall bonfire of imported clothing was started as part of the boycott of foreign goods spearheaded by Sardar Patel. Furthermore, on March 8, 1930, Mahatma Gandhi announced the historic Dandi Yatra from Ellis Bridge. Not only did this historic building leave a lasting impression on the city, but it also had a significant impact on the future of the country.
The threat of
Demolition
Despite facing numerous challenges throughout its existence, Ellis Bridge managed to overcome the threat of demolition on several occasions. Recognizing its cultural significance, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation designated the bridge as a protected site in 1989, ensuring its preservation for future generations
Renamed as
Swami Vivekananda Bridge
Due to the growing population and increased traffic volume, Ellis Bridge was shut down in 1997. In 1999, new concrete bridges were built on either side of the steel structure to handle increased traffic. The bridge was renamed Swami Vivekananda Bridge once it was rebuilt, but the people in the area still call it Ellis Bridge with respect.
Today, it stands as a testament, connecting the old and the new, the past and the present— a tangible embodiment of Ahmedabad's history, development, and identity. Through numerous renovations, weathering challenges, and bearing witness to the rule of countless leaders, this majestic structure remains resolute, its concrete wings a steadfast reminder of its historical significance.
