The Andhra Pradesh government will conduct a fresh technical study to assess the structural integrity of the 125-year-old Havelock Bridge over the Godavari River, located between Rajamahendravaram and Kovvur. Although an earlier IIT-Madras study found the bridge structurally sound, State Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh announced a new investigation to ensure safety ahead of redevelopment.
As part of the Akhanda Godavari project, the Union Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned Rs 94.44 crore to develop tourism infrastructure, including converting the abandoned railway bridge into a heritage and cultural destination. The beautification plan features a craft bazaar, cultural installations on all 25 bridge spans, and a tent city on a 120-acre river island. Originally commissioned in 1900 and decommissioned by South-Central Railways in 1997, the 2.74-km-long Havelock Bridge was officially handed over to the state government for tourism purposes.
Additional facilities like Kadiyam Nurseries Experience Centre, canal boating, and Godavari Harathi at Nidadavolu are also planned to enhance tourism before Godavari Pushkarams 2027.