Bajrang Setu – India’s First Cable Suspension Glass Bridge

Name: Bajrang Setu
Location: Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Type: Cable suspension bridge with glass flooring
Length: 132 metres
Height above Ganga River: Approx. 57–70 feet
Cost: ₹68–70 crore (approx.)
Construction started: 2022
Expected inauguration: Late 2025
Full operational capacity: Early 2026
Significance:
- India’s first cable suspension glass bridge
- Second such bridge in Asia

Architectural theme:
- A fusion of modern engineering and spiritual symbolism.
Twin Towers Design:
- Inspired by the sanctum (garbhagriha) of Kedarnath Temple.
- One tower bears a figure of Lord Kedarnath, the other Lord Badrinath — symbolizing the twin spiritual heritage of Uttarakhand.
Materials Used:
- High-strength steel cables and reinforced glass panels.
- Transparent glass flooring of 65–66 mm thickness for pedestrians.
Structure:
- Central deck designed to support two-wheelers and light four-wheelers.
- Side walkways for pedestrians with glass panels offering views of the Ganga below.
Aesthetic and safety features:
- Anti-slip coatings and multi-layered tempered glass for safety.
- Night illumination to enhance the visual appeal and ensure security.

Structural Design:
- Combines cable suspension technology with glass walkway architecture.
- Designed to withstand high wind pressure and seismic activity common in Himalayan regions.
Technological Integration:
- Use of computer-aided modeling and wind tunnel testing for stability.
- Built using environmentally sustainable construction practices to minimize river pollution.

Represents the spiritual essence of Uttarakhand, known as “Devbhoomi” (Land of Gods).
Symbolizes the connection between tradition and modernity — blending ancient temple design with advanced engineering.
Enhances religious tourism linked to Char Dham pilgrimage and nearby ashrams.
Strengthens Rishikesh’s image as a place where spirituality meets innovation.

Situated near key attractions:
- Parmarth Niketan Ashram
- Beatles Ashram
- Lakshman Jhula (now closed) and Ram Jhula
Provides a modern alternative to older bridges, improving local connectivity across the Ganga.
Aims to ease movement for pilgrims and tourists while boosting local trade and transport.

Expected to attract thousands of domestic and foreign tourists annually.
Promotes eco-friendly and adventure tourism (glass walk experience).
Adds to Rishikesh’s identity as the “Yoga Capital of the World”.
Boosts local economy through hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors.
Reflects Uttarakhand government’s focus on sustainable infrastructure and heritage-based development.

Implementing authority: Government of Uttarakhand (Public Works Department & Tourism Department).
Estimated cost: ₹68–70 crore.
Funding: State government with possible tourism and infrastructure development grants.
Project timeline:
- Initiated – 2022
- Construction phase – 2022–2025
- Completion and opening – End of 2025

Parameter	Details
Bridge Name	Bajrang Setu
Location	Rishikesh, Uttarakhand
Type	Cable suspension glass bridge
Length	132 metres
Height above Ganga	57–70 feet
Construction Began	2022
Expected Completion	Late 2025
Cost	₹68–70 crore
Special Features	Glass flooring, twin towers inspired by Kedarnath Temple
Religious Depictions	Lord Kedarnath & Lord Badrinath
Tourism Impact	Boosts spiritual, adventure, and eco-tourism
National Significance	India’s first and Asia’s second such bridge

Bajrang Setu, recently in news, is located in which state?
Answer: Uttarakhand
Which of the following statements about Bajrang Setu is correct?
- (a) It is India’s longest rail bridge
- (b) It is India’s first cable suspension glass bridge
- (c) It connects Rameswaram with the mainland
- (d) It is part of the Char Dham road project
  Answer: (b)
The design of Bajrang Setu’s twin towers is inspired by:
Answer: Kedarnath Temple