Work on evaluating the underlying rock structure and rock quality of the much awaited elevated road from Udaipole to Court Circle has started. The elevated road has been proposed at an estimated cost of Rs 300 Crores and is expected to ease traffic at some of the busiest junctions in the city.

Before construction of the elevated bridge, testing of the underlying rock structure needs to be undertaken. A team of soil test hydrologists is working on taking samples of the underlying soil and rock structure to get an understanding of the strength. Samples were taken yesterday from Udaipole till Town hall at various points with the help of two boring machines. Work is currently ongoing at the remaining stretch.

The tests are carried out to assess the strength of underlying structure. This test is important to assess whether the underlying structure will be able to withstand the load that comes on the pillars due to traffic on bridge. If the underlying structure is not strong then the rocks may give way and pillars may fall causing huge loss. Hence, in cases where the underlying rock structure is not strong enough, then pile and deep foundation technique is deployed. Under this, first deep excavation is carried out and this is filled with cement and concrete to form a strong foundation on which pillars are established. Girders are placed on pillars for making the bridge.

Construction of the 1.6 km long four lane elevated bridge will be carried out under supervision of NHAI authority director Col. V.S.Meel. The elevated road will be constructed in single span. Design and drawing of the elevated bridge has been prepared at NHAI’s Delhi office.