A new six-lane bridge across Phalguni River in Mangaluru, part of NH-66 widening, is expected to be completed by May 2026 after multiple delays
NHAI Plans New Bridge Completion by May 2026
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is working on a six-lane bridge across the Phalguni (Gurupura) River on the Kanniyakumari-Panvel National Highway 66. The NHAI hopes to complete the bridge by the end of May 2026. The launch of girders at Kulur is set for January 8 in Mangaluru.
After missing several deadlines over the past three years, the NHAI aims to finish the project before the 2026 monsoon season.
Project Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Number of Lanes | 2+2 for main carriageway, 1+1 for service roads |
| Total Length | 776 metres |
| Total Width | 42 metres |
| Number of Vents | 6 |
| Main Carriageway Width | 14+14 metres |
| Service Roads’ Width | 7+7 metres |
| Awarded Cost | ₹56 crore |
| Total Capital Cost | ₹69.02 crore |
| Actual Start Date | April 12, 2021 |
| Scheduled Completion Date | October 11, 2022 |
| Likely Completion Date | May 31, 2025 |
The old Kulur Bridge, built in 1952, is in poor condition. The NHAI recommended closing it for traffic in 2019. However, due to delays in the new bridge, the old bridge remains in use, posing risks to users.
Current Status of Construction
All but one pier cap is complete for the new bridge. NHAI Mangaluru Project Director Abdulla Javed Azmi stated that the pending cap will be finished soon. About 60 girders are ready for launch, with casting ongoing at the contractor’s facility in Panambur.
The new bridge will be 42 metres wide, with service roads on both sides and two main carriageways. Pedestrian paths will also be included along the service roads.
Once the new bridge is operational, the NHAI will close the old bridge for traffic. Utility lines currently on the old bridge will be relocated.
Published – January 08, 2026 02:43 pm IST
