Thu Feb 06 12:56:11 UTC 2025: **Tiruchi Bridge Construction to Accelerate Following Pile Load Tests**
TIRUCHI, February 6, 2025 – Construction of a new ₹106 crore bridge across the Cauvery River in Tiruchi is set to accelerate. Pile load tests, initiated Thursday by the State Highways department, are underway to determine the load-bearing capacity of the bridge’s foundation. These tests, being conducted by the Tiruchi Regional Lab of Highways Research Station, are expected to conclude on February 8th.
The new bridge, a four-lane structure spanning 545 meters and 17.75 meters wide, will run parallel to the existing bridge connecting Srirangam and Tiruchi. Approximately 120 piles are required for its construction, which will encompass 16 spans.
The project, initiated last July, faced delays due to persistent river flow. However, the department utilized this time for off-site work, including land acquisition (2,283 sq. m.), utility relocation, and preparation of pre-stressed concrete girders. The current Mettur dam closure period (January 28th to June 12th) presents a crucial window for expedited construction.
Pending satisfactory results from the pile load tests, full-scale construction is anticipated to begin next week. The land acquisition process, under the Tamil Nadu Highways Act, is nearing completion. A team of senior Highways department officials closely monitored the initial stages of the pile load testing.
First Piper 