Darjeeling’s First Skywalk Bridge with Glass Bottom: A Historic Suspension Bridge Transformed
A historic British-era suspension bridge, named Balwabas Bridge, in Singtom has undergone a remarkable transformation into the Darjeeling’s first and maiden Glass Bottom Skywalk Bridge. This innovative project aims to blend historical charm with modern adventure, significantly enhancing the region’s tourism appeal.
Historical Context
- Original Construction: Built during the British colonial period, the bridge was originally used for crossing the Chota Rangit River by both people and horses. It played a crucial role in connecting the Pulbazar in Bijanbari with the Balabas in Singtom, Darjeeling, facilitating trade and travel.
- Recent Developments: As part of a revitalization effort, the bridge is being reimagined into a skywalk with a glass bottom, offering visitors a unique and thrilling experience.
Features of the Darjeeling’s Glass Skywalk Bridge Connecting Singtom and Bijanbari
- Dimensions: The Darjeeling Glass Bottom Skywalk Bridge stretches 160 feet in length and is suspended approximately 200 feet above the Chota Rangit River.
- Glass Bottom Section: The skywalk includes a 30-foot stretch with a glass bottom made from 12mm toughened tempered safety glass, providing an unparalleled view of the river and the scenic landscape below.
Construction and Design
- Collaborative Effort: The project is spearheaded by Ajoy Edwards, president of Hamro Party, and supported by residents from 20 villages in Singtom and Pulbazar-Bijanbari. Edwards has personally invested over ₹35 lakh in the construction of both the new motorable bridge and the skywalk.
- Safety Measures: To ensure visitor safety, the skywalk will limit access to a maximum of 20 people at a time. The glass used is high-strength tuffen glass, known for its durability and safety.
Future Plans:
- Plans are underway to build a 600 sq. ft. coffee shop on the existing bridge pillars of an incomplete bridge by the side of the Skywalk Glass Bridge in Darjeeling.
- Future developments also include introducing ziplining, rock climbing, and water activities in the Singtom area to create a comprehensive adventure tourism circuit.
Darjeeling Glass Bridge Tourism Circuit:
The skywalk is set to be part of a larger tourism circuit, featuring nearby attractions such as the Sidrapong Hydel Project, Rock Garden, Singtom and Chongtong Tea Ganden, Darjeeling-Singtom Ropeway and Gangamaya Park.
Visitor Information
- Opening Date: The Darjeeling Glass Bottom Skywalk Bridge is expected to be completed and open to the public by August 2024.
- Entry Fees: There may be an entry fee to access the skywalk. Details regarding the fee and visiting hours will be provided closer to the opening date.
- Visitor Capacity: For safety, only 20 visitors will be allowed on the skywalk at any given time.
Significance
The transformation of the historic suspension bridge into the Darjeeling Glass Bottom Skywalk Bridge combines historical significance with modern thrill, offering visitors an exciting new way to experience the stunning views of Darjeeling’s natural beauty. This project highlights a community-driven effort to boost local tourism and enhance the region’s appeal to adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
