As of May 2026, the Subhash Bridge in Ahmedabad remains completely closed to traffic following a major structural failure reported in late 2025. The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has approved a comprehensive ₹236 crore redevelopment and expansion plan, aiming not just to restore the bridge but also significantly increase its capacity in the coming years.
Current Status & Reconstruction Plan
The situation is not a simple repair – it is a major structural overhaul.
Key Updates
- Full Deck Replacement: The 52-year-old bridge’s superstructure (deck) will be completely dismantled and replaced with a modern steel composite girder structure.
- Expansion Plan: Two additional parallel bridges will be constructed on both sides, converting the crossing into a six-lane corridor.
- Timeline: Existing bridge restoration will take approximately 9 months. New bridges construction will take approximately 24 months, with expected completion by early 2028.
- Safety Findings: Expert audits by IIT Roorkee, IIT Bombay, and SVNIT Surat confirmed that the foundation is safe, but the superstructure is unsafe due to cracks and settlement near Pillar No. 9.
Traffic & Travel Impact in Ahmedabad
The closure has significantly disrupted daily commuting, especially between East and West Ahmedabad.
Major Traffic Changes
- Heavy congestion reported across key connecting routes
- Increased pressure on alternate bridges and underpasses
Primary Alternatives
- Dafnala Underpass (main diversion route)
- Crossings via Sabarmati and Wadaj areas
Additional Disruptions
A major diversion on SG Highway (YMCA to Karnavati Club) continues until May 31, 2026 due to flyover work.
Relief Update
The new Subhash Bridge RTO building is expected to open in mid-May 2026, slightly easing local congestion.
Routes to Key Locations
Heading to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI)
If you are traveling from West Ahmedabad:
- Northern Route: Use Sabarmati Bridge or Chandrabagha Bridge. Continue toward Hansol via Airport Road.
- Southern Route: Cross via Rishi Dadhichi Bridge (Wadaj-Dudheshwar) or Gandhi Bridge. Take Riverfront Road (East) toward Dafnala.
Expected travel time is 30 to 45 minutes during peak hours.
Heading to Kalupur Railway Station
- Via Dudheshwar: Use Rishi Dadhichi Bridge. Pass through Idgah Circle, Prem Darwaja, then Kalupur.
- Via Western Ahmedabad: Use Nehru Bridge or Ellis Bridge. Continue via Relief Road or Gandhi Road.
Expected travel time is a minimum of 40 minutes due to congestion.
Pro Tips for Daily Commuters
Smart Travel Tips
- Use Riverfront Roads: Both east and west riverfront roads help bypass inner-city traffic.
- Avoid Dafnala During Peak Hours: It is currently the biggest bottleneck.
- Consider Metro Travel: The Ahmedabad Metro (Red Line) is a faster option. It connects Sabarmati and Motera to Old City areas near Kalupur.
What This Means for the Future
While the closure is inconvenient in the short term, the long-term plan is transformative:
- A modern 6-lane corridor will significantly improve connectivity
- Reduced congestion between East and West Ahmedabad
- Safer infrastructure with updated engineering standards
Conclusion
The Subhash Bridge closure in Ahmedabad is a major infrastructure event impacting thousands of daily commuters. While traffic disruptions are unavoidable right now, the ₹236 crore redevelopment project promises a long-term solution with better capacity, safety, and smoother connectivity.
For now, commuters should plan routes in advance, allow extra travel time, and use metro or riverfront alternatives whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why is Subhash Bridge in Ahmedabad closed?
A1. The bridge is closed due to a major structural failure reported in late 2025. Expert audits confirmed cracks and settlement near Pillar No. 9, making the superstructure unsafe.
Q2. What is the cost of the Subhash Bridge redevelopment project?
A2. The AMC has approved a comprehensive ₹236 crore redevelopment and expansion plan.
Q3. How long will the restoration and construction take?
A3. Existing bridge restoration will take approximately 9 months. New bridges construction will take approximately 24 months, with expected completion by early 2028.
Q4. What are the alternate routes to reach the airport from West Ahmedabad?
A4. Use Sabarmati Bridge or Chandrabagha Bridge via the northern route, or use Rishi Dadhichi Bridge or Gandhi Bridge via the southern route with Riverfront Road toward Dafnala.
Q5. What is the expected travel time to Kalupur Railway Station during peak hours?
A5. Expected travel time is a minimum of 40 minutes due to congestion.