The Ghaghara bridge, known as Sanje Setu, located on National Highway 927 at the border of Barabanki and Bahraich districts, will be closed for repair work from February 10 to April 9, 2026. This crucial bridge serves as a key route from Lucknow to Bahraich, Gonda, Shravasti, Balrampur, and even Nepal. During this period, an estimated 75,000 to 100,000 daily commuters are expected to be affected.
The construction of the bridge began in 1981, with its foundation laid by then-Chief Minister Vishwanath Pratap Singh (also known as V.P. Singh). It was completed in three years and opened to the public in 1984, at which time it was considered the longest bridge in Uttar Pradesh. Currently, the bridge is in a deteriorated condition, necessitating closure for repairs. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), along with local administration, has assigned the repair work to M/s AM Builders, with an estimated cost of ₹5 crore.
Authorities have suggested alternative routes for commuters. The current distance from Bahraich to Lucknow is approximately 110 km, but via the alternative Chalahari Ghat route, it will increase to around 151 km. Similarly, the distance from Shravasti to Lucknow is currently 150 km, which will become 197 km using the alternate route.
The administration has urged travelers to use these alternative routes during the repair period for safety and convenience. Although the idea of a pontoon bridge for small vehicles was considered, time constraints make it impractical to set up.
