Lakshman Jhula, the iconic suspension bridge that runs across the River Ganga in Rishikesh, was closed to pedestrian and vehicular traffic from July 12, 2019 as team of experts found most of its parts in a dilapidated condition.
Laxman Jhula is a 450-feet-long iron suspension bridge constructed by the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department over the Ganga River during 1927-1929. It is one of the very famous landmarks of the city of Rishikesh. This bridge was opened for public movement in 1930. It connects the villages of Tapovan in Tehri Garhwal district and Jonk in Pauri Garhwal district. It is one of the main attractions for tourists and devotees coming to Rishikesh.
Local administration and the public works department of Uttarakhand had to close the bridge keeping public safety in mind. The state government has assured the public that substantial steps would be taken to preserve the cultural heritage of Laxman Jhula and an alternative bridge would be constructed soon to provide public relief.
According to Hindu mythology, Lakshman, brother of Rama, crossed the river on jute ropes at the place where the bridge is currently built. A photograph of ‘The Beatles’ band troupe (an English rock band from Liverpool) standing on the bridge was published worldwide when they visited Rishikesh in 1968 for learning transcendental meditation. Thus the bridge came to be known in the West.