OPTIMIZING THE EXTENT OF MODERNIZATION OF BRIDGES (Paper 829)

World is witnessing the era of innovations where concept of bridges is also getting modernized. Great attentions are being paid across the globe to enhance the structural behavior, geometry, durability, riding quality and aesthetics of the bridges. Performance of bridges in high seismic zones is one of the key concerns of bridge professionals across the world. 
An initiative, in this regard, has been taken by Uttarakhand Rural Roads Development Agency  (URRDA) while proposing 65m span bridge across Gori nadi (river) under PMGSY scheme in the state of Uttarakhand. The bridge which is going to become landmark structure of the country will probably depict the extent till which modernization of bridges can be done. The bridge, which has got altogether a noticeable elegant look, has also got two excellent behaviors merging into it i.e. arch action and frame (integral) action. Arch bridges are well known for their superior behavior since ages and integral bridges, where substructure is monolithically connected to superstructure, are recent trends across the world due to their many inherent features i.e. superior structural behavior under stringent seismic/flood conditions,  enhanced durability,  no maintenance requirements, improved riding quality and distinct graceful look.
The paper primarily discusses about the features, design and methodology of construction for the bridge. Detailing of various components of the bridge which was found even more challenging and interesting has also been presented in the paper. The bridge has been designed for high seismic forces of zone V.