An engineering challenge that stumped the British

Amidst the picturesque landscapes, across the Teesta River linking Siliguri to the enchanting Darjeeling hills, spans a monumental testament to heritage and engineering prowess.

Behold the Coronation Bridge, also known as the Sevoke Roadway Bridge, an 87-year-old architectural marvel erected in honour of King George V's coronation.

Back in the day, the British needed to build a road to facilitate the transportation of goods and military supplies between Siliguri and Darjeeling. The problem was the rugged terrain of the Eastern Himalayas and the mighty Teesta River, which was prone to swelling during monsoons, proved to be an engineering challenge that the British couldn't conquer. Since the British were stumped, three visionary Bengali architects - A.C. Dutt, S.K. Ghosh, and K.P. Roy - rose to the occasion. Their tireless endeavours culminated in the inception of a remarkable arched cantilever bridge in 1937, now revered as the Coronation Bridge.

The construction of the Coronation Bridge, costing an estimated four lakh English pounds at the time, was a monumental undertaking, with a projected lifespan of a century. Despite enduring floods, earthquakes, and myriad challenges over the years, this resilient structure has stood the test of time, ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow and serving as a vital lifeline for the region.

To pay homage to the royal occasion, two majestic tiger statues adorn the Jalpaiguri side of the bridge, endowing it with the local moniker of 'Bagh Pool' or Tiger Bridge. The foundation stone, ceremoniously laid by the erstwhile Governor of Bengal, John Anderson, marked the commencement of a four-year construction journey. Today, two marble plaques serve as reminders of the bridge's rich heritage and the collaborative efforts of the architects and dignitaries that shaped its magnificent legacy.