Goshree bridges is a system of bridges that link the mainland side of the city of Kochi to the islands lying to the north of the backwaters.[1] It provides the vital road connectivity to the islands of Bolgatty and Vallarpadam and also links the western island of Vypin to the mainland. The bridges start from the northern end of Marine Drive between High Court and Pachalam.
)
The bridges are constructed by the Goshree Island Development Authority, constituted by the Government of Kerala. The construction was funded by the sale proceeds of reclaimed land adjacent to the bridge.
The foundation stone was laid on 29 December 2000. The first segment between Ernakulam and Bolgatty was opened on 29 December 2003. The segment between Bolgatty and Vallarpadam was opened on 10 February 2004. The last segment was completed on 17 March 2004 and the entire bridge is formally opened on 5 June.[2][3]
The bridge is the only means road connectivity to the Bolgatty and Vallarpadam islands. The launching of the International Container Transshipment Terminal was made possible by these bridges. It also provides direct road connectivity to the city for the Vypin island and the suburbs to the northwest, which was relying upon ferry services earlier. Cherian Varkey Construction company was involved in its construction.
The new container road NH from Mulavukad will link the Malabar, Cochin, North Paravur with mainland.
References
- ^ "Opening of Goshree" (PDF). Government of Kerala. Retrieved 4 January 2011.
- ^ "A chronology of Goshree project". Chennai, India: the Hindu. 17 March 2004. Retrieved 4 January 2011.
- ^ "Goshree bridges' inauguration today". Chennai, India: The Hindu. 5 June 2004. Retrieved 4 January 2011.