Today, an environmentally-conscious public has made aesthetics
an obligation for all bridge designers, particularly in the light of the fact that
such structures built for 100 years of useful life can either harmonise with their
natural environment and actually contribute to the quality of life or remain an
irreversible eye-sore.
The Dodan Nallah Arch Bridge is located in scenic mountain
ranges with snow capped peaks near Dharamsala in the northern state of Himachal
Pradesh in India. Arching gracefully against the backdrop of the pristine beauty
of the mountains, it bears silent testimony to the indomi- table spirit of Man
and his fundamental desire to conserve and beautify his environment.
Bridge aesthetics was a major concern during the evolution
of the conceptual design. Considerable efforts went into the section of the
thickness, disposition and proportions of the elements constituting the structure
so that it would embellish and not diminish the magnificence of the natural
surroundings. Use of local skilled and unskilled labour and locally available
materials and gearing the design to suit the contractor's plant and equipment went
a long way in winning the "design plus construct" bid.
The bridge replaces a small stone masonry arch bridge so as to
improve the highway geometries in plan to avoid steep gradients at the bridge
approaches. It is interesting to note that during the execution of the new bridge,
passersby on the old bridge halted for considerable periods of time to take a look
at this unusual type of structure and since the old bridge is still operational,
admirers continue to view the new bridge in elevation. Of course, those that use
the new bridge, miss the delight of observing its graceful structure in the most
scenic of surroundings! The eco- friendly design of the Dodan Nallah Arch Bridge
is in as near - perfect harmony with the hilly terrain as man-made structures can be.
With its elegance and grace, it enhances the quality of the environment, and favorable
comments received from frequenters of this route: tourists, picnickers and truck drivers,
certify this truth !
