Delhi

PWD Approves Rs 17.5 Lakh Structural Audit of Delhi's Signature Bridge

By Editorial·12 June 2026·1 min read

A photorealistic wide shot of the iconic Signature Bridge in Delhi, showcasing its unique asymmetrical pylon and steel c...

The Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) has approved a proposal to appoint an expert consultant to conduct a comprehensive structural audit of the Signature Bridge in Delhi. The Rs 17.5 lakh safety assessment will evaluate the stability of the city's first asymmetrical bridge and determine the feasibility of making its slanting lifts operational for public use.

Inaugurated in 2018, the landmark bridge was executed by the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation (DTTDC). However, due to budget constraints for maintenance, the DTTDC handed over the bridge to the PWD earlier this year.

According to PWD minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, no structural audit of the bridge had been conducted in the last seven years.

"Public safety is our highest priority," Singh said. "This landmark structure suffered from years of neglect under the previous government. To ensure its long-term safety and stability, we have decided to appoint an expert consultant for a comprehensive structural assessment."

The newly appointed consultant will prepare a detailed maintenance methodology, which will include recommendations for preventive, periodic, and long-term safety measures. A key aspect of the audit will be examining the bridge's slanting lifts to see if they can safely be opened to the public. Singh stated that the report will guide the necessary steps for repairs, rehabilitation, and maintenance.

Prior to this decision, the PWD conducted an internal audit after taking over the bridge. That assessment revealed that the road surface, side railings, and grills were damaged, and that the streetlights were non-functional. In response, the department carried out immediate patch works to repair potholes and fixed the streetlights to eliminate dark spots.

To prevent delays, the PWD has directed the engineer in charge to ensure the consultancy services are completed on time. Official documents state that no cost escalation will be permitted without prior approval from the competent authority.