The bridge, constructed in 2013, carries the Thoothukudi-Tirunelveli route along NH 138 across the Thamirabarani river at Vallanadu. Recurring cracks and potholes have frequently affected traffic movement since its construction, prompting repeated maintenance and rehabilitation efforts.
NHAI undertook a major renovation of the structure in July 2024 based on recommendations from expert teams of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) and the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI). However, the continued recurrence of surface defects after previous rehabilitation work has raised concerns about the durability of repairs and the bridge’s long-term performance.
In a response to a petition by social activist Sugan Christober, NHAI Project Director Krishnendra Dwivedi stated that minor depressions and cracks had been detected on the deck slab. Immediate rectification was carried out by the existing contractor to support safe and uninterrupted traffic movement, while interim measures will continue until the permanent work is completed.
The permanent repairs have been approved and tendered in accordance with NHAI and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) guidelines. Of the bridge’s 15 spans, more than seven have developed depressions and cracks on their decks. NHAI has assessed the defects as surface-level issues that could be repaired, while maintaining that the structural integrity of the bridge remains intact. The planned work will focus on repairing the wearing course, the upper road surface designed to withstand traffic and weather-related stress.