Varanasi’s New Signature Bridge Named “Namo Bridge”

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Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi is set to add another major landmark to its growing infrastructure network. The new signature double-decker bridge being constructed across the River Ganga, alongside the historic Malviya Bridge (formerly known as Dufferin Bridge), has been named Namo Bridge.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the name on October 31, 2026, after inspecting the bridge’s ongoing construction and the redevelopment of Kashi Railway Station during his visit to Varanasi.

The announcement has attracted attention because many residents and visitors may not yet be aware that the city’s upcoming signature bridge has officially been given a new name. Importantly, the announcement applies to the newly constructed bridge and does not mean that the existing Malviya Bridge has been renamed.

What Makes Namo Bridge Special?

The most distinctive feature of Namo Bridge is its double-decker design, which will accommodate both road and railway transportation within a single structure.

According to the proposed design:

• The upper deck will feature a six-lane highway.
• The lower deck will accommodate four railway tracks.
• The overall project will extend approximately 2.5 kilometres, including approach roads.
• The new bridge is being constructed parallel to the existing Malviya Bridge.
• It is planned to connect with Kashi Railway Station.

This integrated transport infrastructure is expected to improve the movement of passengers, vehicles and freight across the region.

Why Is a New Bridge Being Built Beside Malviya Bridge?

The historic Malviya Bridge, previously known as Dufferin Bridge and also locally associated with Rajghat, was constructed in 1887. For more than a century, it has remained an important road and railway connection across the Ganga in Varanasi.

However, increasing passenger and freight traffic has created additional pressure on the existing railway corridor.

The new Namo Bridge is being developed to address these capacity constraints and strengthen railway connectivity between Varanasi and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction.

The additional railway infrastructure is expected to improve operational efficiency and provide greater capacity for future transportation requirements.

₹1,201 Crore Construction Contract

The project is being executed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) through a joint venture with GPT Infraprojects Limited. The construction contract is valued at approximately ₹1,201.35 crore.

The bridge is an important component of the Varanasi–Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya multitracking project.

In October 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the broader multitracking project at an estimated cost of approximately ₹2,642 crore.

The two financial figures represent different scopes: ₹1,201.35 crore relates to the bridge construction contract, while ₹2,642 crore is the estimated cost of the wider multitracking project.

Better Connectivity Towards Bihar and Northeastern India

Once completed, Namo Bridge is expected to strengthen transportation connectivity beyond Varanasi.

The project is expected to benefit railway and road movement towards Bihar, West Bengal and northeastern states.

According to project-related information, the additional freight transportation capacity is expected to reach approximately 27.83 million tonnes per annum.

The new infrastructure is also expected to improve accessibility to Kashi Railway Station, Namo Ghat and the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, benefiting pilgrims, tourists and local commuters.

Construction Target Set at 36 Months

During his inspection on October 31, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw directed the executing agency to accelerate construction and complete the project within 36 months, compared with the earlier 48-month schedule.

Construction work is currently underway.

Once operational, the bridge is expected to become an important part of Varanasi’s modern transportation network, supporting both railway operations and road connectivity.

A New Chapter in Varanasi’s Infrastructure Development

Varanasi is gradually strengthening its identity as a city that combines its historic heritage with modern infrastructure.

While the 1887-built Malviya Bridge remains an iconic part of the city’s history, the newly named Namo Bridge represents an investment in its future transportation requirements.

With a six-lane highway above and four railway tracks below, the upcoming structure is expected to become one of the most significant infrastructure developments along the Ganga in Varanasi.

Disclaimer: Namo Bridge is currently an under-construction infrastructure project. The naming announcement does not indicate that the bridge has been opened to public traffic.