First Railway Bridge Across The Hooghly In Calcutta, 1931 Photo
A 1931 photograph shows the first railway bridge built across the Hooghly River in Calcutta (Kolkata). Originally called the Willingdon Bridge in honor of the Viceroy, it was later renamed Bally Bridge. It eventually became known as the Vivekananda Setu, after the spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda.
The image shows the bridge nearing completion, with cranes and construction materials still visible at both ends of the bridge. The work on this British-era steel bridge began in 1926 and was completed in 1931. The multi-span bridge measures around 900 meters in length. It connects Howrah on one side of the Hooghly River with Bally and Dakshineswar on the other. It serves as a vital rail and road link between the two cities.
The bridge was inaugurated on 29 December 1931 by Lord Willingdon, then Viceroy of British India. At the time of inauguration, two land spans were still under construction, yet the ceremony took place, marking a milestone in India’s bridge building. With its seven massive 350-foot main spans and two smaller 80-foot land spans, the bridge remains a landmark of colonial-era infrastructure and a key piece of India’s railway history. Click image to enlarge.
Did you know- the first train that ran across the bridge was named Jagmal Raja Howrah Express by the British in gratitude for the contractors’ meritorious work.
From the collection- Vintage Raja Ravi Varma “Shivaji” Oleograph Print.
