Akkulam glass bridge set for opening in May
T'puram: The long-awaited opening of the glass bridge at
Akkulam Tourist Village
is likely to take place in May, with the final inspection by the National Institute of Technology Calicut (NIT-C) scheduled next month.
Tourism officials confirmed that all construction and repair works on the bridge were completed, and the bridge will be opened to the public once the NIT's inspection report grants approval.
Initially, the glass bridge was slated for an April 2024 inauguration.
However, the discovery of cracks in the 12mm, three-layered glass panels delayed the plan, forcing authorities to replace the damaged sections. A senior tourism department official said the upcoming inspection is the final hurdle. "All works related to the glass bridge have been completed. Now, we are awaiting NIT's inspection.
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They will also inspect the floating sea bridges at Varkala and Chavakkadu in Thrissur. So, the opening will not be delayed further," he said.
The delay in opening the bridge dragged on for nearly a year after experts from NIT and a Chennai-based firm identified cracks during a safety review. Although the overall structure was deemed safe, the entire glass surface was replaced to ensure maximum public safety.
Following recommendations from a state-appointed committee, an additional glass layer was also added to reinforce the structure.
The enhanced bridge now features several upgrades, including an LED wall that creates a 'breaking glass' illusion, adding to the thrill. Spanning 52 metres, the glass bridge is the longest of its kind in the region. Visitors will also experience attractions such as artificial fog, mist effects, and dynamic LED lighting.
Unlike similar glass bridges at Vagamon and Wayanad, the Akkulam bridge will remain open at night, illuminated. Located beside the scenic Akkulam Lake and near the popular Air Force Museum, the bridge is expected to become a major draw for both adventure seekers and families once it opens.
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