Inspectors examined all major components of the cable stayed structure, including the superstructure, foundations, bearings, expansion joints, steel deck, the 154-metre pylon, stay cables, approach structures, skywalk ramp and glass façade, as well as the Bridge Health Monitoring System (BHMS). The assessment found the BHMS largely non functional, with several sensors damaged, missing or operating in passive mode, prompting plans for its restoration. The proposed overhaul will cover temperature, strain, wind, displacement, acceleration, inclination, corrosion, traffic and force sensors, together with a new data acquisition system and a control room setup.
Delhi PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh indicated that the Signature Bridge is one of the city’s most important landmarks and a critical part of the transport network, and that the government’s priority is to ensure every component remains safe and properly maintained. He added that the administration will not allow past gaps in maintenance to become future risks and that work will proceed in a systematic manner. Officials said the programme will combine technical inspections, sensor restoration and targeted civil repairs.
The assessment also identified erosion and deterioration of foundation protection around riverside foundations, which will be addressed through corrective maintenance and specialist engineering works. Restoring the BHMS is expected to provide real time monitoring and enable engineers to detect potential issues well before they pose serious hazards. The ministry has outlined a staged plan that prioritises safety critical elements while scheduling broader rehabilitation to preserve the structure’s long term serviceability.
