Construction of the bridge began in 1900 and was completed in 1904. It was built by the British to transport goods from Kollam to Madras (now Chennai) as part of one of India’s oldest mountain railway lines. The bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering for its time, constructed using just rocks, limestone, and jaggery (a binding agent) – a technique known as the Surki method.
Here are some key features of the 13 Arch Bridge:
- Number of Arches: As the name suggests, the bridge has 13 arches.
- Material: Built with rocks, limestone, and jaggery using the Surki method.
- Length: 103 meters (338 feet)
- Height: 5.18 meters (17.0 ft)
- Supported by: Thirteen granite pillars that are about 100 feet tall.
- Location: Sandwiched between the River Kazhuthurutti on one side and the Kollam Thirumangalam National Highway (NH 744) on the other.
The 13 Arch Bridge is a beautiful and historic landmark that stands as a testament to the engineering skills of the past. It is a popular tourist destination, especially for those interested in history and architecture. If you are ever in Kollam, be sure to check out this magnificent bridge!
