Darjeeling Municipality Chairman Dipen Thakuri emphasized the importance of preserving the bridge, stating, “The Victoria Falls Bridge carries the historical dignity of Darjeeling. Protecting its heritage is tantamount to restoring the pride of our city. This is the vision and responsibility of the Municipality, and we have initiated actions based on this principle.”
The bridge’s current structural condition is critical, with increasing risks to both residents and tourists using the route. The Municipality has determined that preserving the existing structure, alongside building a modern, durable, and safe bridge, is essential. “We have formally requested the Municipal Engineering Directorate and the Department of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Siliguri Division, to implement a non-destructive RCC construction project at Victoria Falls, Ward No. 8. By adopting non-destructive experimental methods for structural and quality assessment, we have urged that the construction process proceed as swiftly as possible,” Thakuri added.
The Municipality has assured full cooperation for the project, including site availability, local coordination, and all necessary support. Experts and engineers from Jadavpur University are scheduled to visit the site soon for a detailed inspection to advance the restoration efforts.
After years of neglect, the bridge has suffered from structural deterioration due to unplanned urbanization and lack of maintenance, putting commuters and tourists at risk. On Saturday, the Jadavpur University team conducted a field survey and delivered an initial assessment.
Built over the Victoria Falls and spanning 110 feet, the bridge once linked Sidrapong with Darjeeling and was an integral part of Asia’s first hydroelectric project. Experts indicated that timely retrofitting and repairs could extend the bridge’s lifespan by an additional 10 years. A preliminary report is expected to be submitted to the civic authorities by Thursday.
The Victoria Falls, with its 80-foot clear spring water drop and the adjoining bridge, were long-standing tourist attractions, officially recognized as a heritage site on October 24, 2007. However, years of neglect, poor sanitation, and uncontrolled urban expansion had eroded the site’s former glory.
Chairman Thakuri reaffirmed the Municipality’s commitment, stating, “We are fully dedicated to preserving this bridge. It is both a heritage asset and a lifeline for local communities. The Municipality will cover the expenses for study, testing, retrofitting, and preservation, aiming to restore the bridge as both a safe passage and a tourist destination.”
The Victoria Falls Sangrakshan Samiti (VFSS), a community organization representing local villages and spearheading preservation efforts since 2004, welcomed the initiative.
The Municipality’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to making Darjeeling a tourist-friendly town while ensuring safety and sustainability for its residents.
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