Keane Bridge — Attraction in Sylhet Division

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Historic Keane Bridge in Sylhet verges on falling down

INFRASTRUCTURE

Devjyoti Das

24 May, 2021, 10:30 am

Last modified: 28 August, 2021, 10:47 am



The 1,150-foot-long and 16-foot-wide Keane Bridge was built in 1933



Photo: Collected/Mohammad Rafayat Haque Khan

The beautification and renovation of the 87-year-old historic Keane Bridge in Sylhet over the Surma River has not started yet, despite several initiatives in past years. The bridge has been in a dilapidated condition for years and has been declared risky.

Last January, the ministry of roads and highways allocated Tk2.81 crore for the renovation of the bridge, which has not yet started. Now, vehicles using this bridge are at risk.

Sylhet City Corporation had an alternative plan for the bridge which connects the north and south banks of the Surma River. They took the initiative to stop all vehicular traffic and turn it into a pedestrian bridge. The city corporation said it would be the longest pedestrian bridge in the country.

As part of this initiative, traffic was stopped by installing iron fences on both sides of the bridge. But the objections of local people never allowed the initiative to go further, nor did the city corporation take any action to renovate the bridge at the time.

Last year, renovation of the bridge was discussed at a coordination meeting of various development projects at the Sylhet Divisional Commissioner's Office and a three-member committee was formed to take necessary steps to repair the bridge.

After that, the Roads and Highways Department applied to the ministry for allocation of funds to repair the bridge. The department's Sylhet office received the money in January, but they have not started the work yet.

Mostafizur Rahman, executive engineer of the roads and highways department, Sylhet, said, "We have a budget allocation for renovation of the bridge. We have also got the work order."

He said, "The railway department built the bridge. They repair such bridges in the country. They are skilled in this sort of work. So, the railway authorities will also work on this project. However, due to some complications, it took 3/4 months to transfer the money to them. We will hand over the money next week. Then they will start working."

The 1,150-foot-long and 16-foot-wide Keane Bridge was built in 1933 and opened to traffic in 1936. It is named after the then Governor of the Indian state of Assam, Michael Keane. The red bridge, made of iron, curved like a bow, is now also a tourist attraction.

The old bridge has become shaky as it has not been repaired for a long time. The bridge trembles under the weight of the vehicles that pass through it. Being risky, the authorities have stopped movement of all types of vehicles except rickshaws and auto-rickshaws.

The Pakistani army tried to destroy the bridge during the liberation war in 1971. After  independence, the government of Bangladesh extensively renovated the bridge though no major renovation or maintenance work has taken place since then.

Sylhet City Corporation officials said tourists flock to the Surma River, Kean Bridge, and Ali Amjad's clock. They plan to make this area tourist-friendly, and to beautify the entire area by reducing traffic in the area.

As part of this initiative, in September 2019, all kinds of traffic was stopped by putting up signboards with the word 'risky' on both sides of the bridge. The roads and highways department also agreed to the plan.

However, residents on the south bank of the bridge were outraged after traffic was stopped on Kean Bridge. They demanded that traffic on the bridge be allowed for their convenience. A few days later, rickshaws started moving across after breaking the iron fences on both ends of the bridge. All types of vehicles are now using this bridge.

Nur Azizur Rahman, chief engineer of Sylhet City Corporation, said, "Keane Bridge is under the roads and highways department so they should do the renovation work. They will better address the issue of...

Keane Bridge is one of the most iconic and historical landmarks of Sylhet, often referred to as the “gateway of Sylhet.” Built in 1936 during the British colonial period and named after Sir Michael Keane, the then Governor of Assam, this bridge carries great historical, architectural, and cultural significance. Stretching over the Surma River, it connects the southern and northern parts of Sylhet city, making it not only a symbol of heritage but also an important link for transportation and communication.

The bridge is often called the "gateway of Sylhet" because it is the very first thing travelers notice when entering the city. Its unique steel structure, designed in a bow shape, stands tall as a testimony of colonial-era engineering. Even after so many decades, Keane Bridge still maintains its strength and charm, though it has undergone some renovations over the years to preserve its legacy. Walking across the bridge offers a mesmerizing view of the Surma River, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the reflection of the sky paints the river with magical colors.

For the people of Sylhet, Keane Bridge is not just a bridge; it is a sign of identity and pride. Many photographs, postcards, and paintings use this bridge as the symbol of Sylhet city. Tourists from around the country and abroad never miss a chance to visit and capture memories here. In the evenings, the lights on the bridge create a beautiful atmosphere, adding to the city’s charm.

Overall, Keane Bridge is more than just a piece of history—it is a living landmark that continues to connect people, culture, and heritage. Anyone visiting Sylhet should make it a priority to see this bridge, as it is truly the sign and...

I visited Keane Bridge a few days ago with some of my friends, and honestly, it felt like touching a piece of Sylhet’s history. This bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in our city, built during British rule back in 1936 and still standing strong over the Surma River. It connects the two sides of Sylhet town and is known as the “gateway to Sylhet.” From the middle of the bridge, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the Surma River, especially during sunrise or sunset — perfect spot for photos and peaceful walks. One of the best parts is the calm breeze that blows over the river, giving a really refreshing feeling. The area around the bridge is also full of life, with nearby places like the Ali Amjad Clock Tower and Chandnighat where you’ll find street food, tea stalls, and friendly local people. But honestly, there are some downsides too. The bridge is quite old now and needs proper renovation. Although vehicles are not allowed anymore, the structure seems weak in some parts, and many locals are worried about safety. It could really use some fresh paint, better maintenance, and more lights at night. Still, this place has a charm you can’t ignore — it’s more than just a bridge; it’s part of our Sylheti identity. If you visit Sylhet, you shouldn’t miss it. Come in the evening for the best views, and don’t forget to bring your camera. Highly recommend for both locals...