New Delhi: Having taken up the maintenance responsibility for Signature Bridge, Public Works Department (PWD) has moved to appoint a consultant to draft a comprehensive five-year upkeep plan.The bridge was constructed by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation (DTTDC) for Rs 1,518.3 crore. In addition to construction funds, the tourism body was entrusted with maintaining the structure for three years. After this period ended, officials stated that DTTDC faced financial constraints and decided to transfer the maintenance responsibility to PWD, which manages road repairs and related infrastructure throughout the capital.
Located over the Yamuna, the bridge connects Outer Ring Road with northeast Delhi’s Karawal Nagar and Bhajanpura. It provides a direct route for commuters travelling between Loni, Rajendra Nagar, Ghaziabad, northeast Delhi and central areas such as ITO. The 154-metre-high pylon, the tallest structure in Delhi, defines the skyline. Its viewing box and skywalk have become popular attractions for visitors.PWD is now seeking a structured plan to preserve the landmark. According to official documents, the consultant will conduct site visits and visual inspections before preparing a detailed schedule for testing and future inspections. The assignment also requires the consultant to outline repair methodologies and submit preliminary cost estimates for inspection, testing and maintenance work. The assessment will cover all key components of the bridge, including the superstructure and substructure, expansion joints, bearings, steel deck and pylon and the stay cables. The glass façade, skywalk ramp, bridge health monitoring system, under-deck system and substation building will also be reviewed, along with any additional elements identified by the engineer in charge.The consultant will prepare a detailed five-year maintenance blueprint. The plan will define monthly inspection protocols, preventive maintenance procedures and an emergency response strategy to address unforeseen damage. A consolidated estimate will be included in the submission of the plan.
