Work on the high-level bridge over the Mandlia Nullah in Sambalpur has begun. Telegraph picture

Sambalpur, Nov. 30: The construction of the high-level bridge over Mandlia nullah near Ring Road has begun, much to the relief of the commuters

Executive engineer of the road and building division of the public works department Sanjaya Sahu said the bridge, estimated to be built at a cost of Rs 4.66 crore, will connect the city with NH-6 at Laxmi Dungri. It will be 30ft high and rest on five pillars.

There is already a bridge over the Mandlia Nullah on the Ring Road. However, it is narrow and it does not have a railing. Moreover, during heavy rain, the existing bridge gets submerged as water flows over it, cutting off the communication and causing severe inconvenience for the commuters. The existing bridge is also in a dilapidated condition now. The residents of the city had been demanding for a high-level bridge since long.

“According to the agreement, the construction work is to be completed by March 2016. However, we have set a target to complete the construction work of the bridge by end of 2015,” said an official of the construction firm. He also said that the existing bridge would not be dismantled.

“The Ring Road connects the NH-6 with the city. Several commuters prefer this road to reach the national highway. However, because of the narrow bridge over the Mandlia nullah near this road, the commuters face difficulty. A high-level bridge was essential for the smooth vehicular movement on the road,” said Srikant Barik, a local resident.

“Several people of Burla and Hirakud, who come to Sambalpur through this road every day, will also be benefited after the completion” he said.