13 Arch Bridge A Historic Marvel in Kollam, Kerala: A Colonial Engineering Marvel

13 Arch Bridge (Pathimoonnu Kannara Palam) located near Kazhuthurutti in Kollam district, Kerala stands as a testament to the engineering brilliance of the British colonial era. As part of the Kollam-Chengottai railway line, this bridge, with its 13 majestic arches, has a fascinating story that spans over a century. It is one of the lesser-known but equally stunning historical landmarks in Kerala, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and architectural prowess of the British period. This bridge is not just an engineering marvel but a symbol of how technology blended with nature during the British era.

Key Features of the 13 Arch Bridge:

• Historical Significance: Built without the use of cement during the British colonial period, the 13 Arch Bridge is a rare example of historical infrastructure that has stood the test of time. Despite being over 100 years old, the bridge has maintained its structural integrity and charm.
• Architectural Design: The bridge stretches 102 meters in length and rises to a height of 5 meters. It features thirteen large arches (referred to as Kannara) which were thoughtfully designed to allow water to flow during the monsoon season, a feature particularly beneficial for the surrounding wildlife.
• Location & Surroundings: Situated near a forest area, the bridge is believed to have been designed not only for human traffic but also to cater to the natural flow of water and animal life in the region. This unique integration of engineering and nature is what makes the bridge even more special.
• Engineering Techniques: The bridge, built with British engineering techniques, is part of the Kollam-Thirunelveli meter gauge railway line, one of the first railway tracks in the princely state of Travancore. The line opened for services in 1904, connecting Kollam with the industrial town of Madras (now Chennai).

A Glimpse into the Past:

• First Railway Track in Travancore: The Kollam-Thirunelveli meter gauge railway line was the first of its kind in Travancore, established after discussions between His Highness Sri Moolam Thirunal Maharaja and the British government in 1896. The construction of this line began in 1898, and it opened for traffic in 1904.
• A Network of Bridges and Tunnels: The railway line, which connected Kollam and Madras, was renowned for its impressive infrastructure, filled with tunnels, bridges, and other engineering feats. The 13 Arch Bridge is a perfect example of this architectural excellence.
• End of an Era: The meter gauge, which was once rare in India, was eventually phased out as the line began being converted to broad gauge. On September 19, 2010, the last meter gauge passenger train passed through the 13 Arch Bridge, marking the end of an era. Today, the railway line is no longer in operation, but the 13 Arch Bridge remains a historic relic.

FAQs About the 13 Arch Bridge:

1. Where is the 13 Arch Bridge located?

   • The 13 Arch Bridge is located near Kazhuthurutti, in the Kollam district of Kerala.

2. Why is the 13 Arch Bridge famous?

   • It is famous for its unique colonial-era design featuring 13 arches and is one of the best examples of British engineering in India.

3. How old is the 13 Arch Bridge?

   • The bridge is over 100 years old, having been constructed in the early 20th century during the British rule.

4. What makes the 13 Arch Bridge stand out?

   • The use of thirteen arches, without cement, and its location near a forest make the bridge an impressive feat of engineering and a historical landmark.

5. Can tourists visit the 13 Arch Bridge?

• Yes, the 13 Arch Bridge is a popular tourist attraction and is open for visitors. It offers a glimpse into the rich history and architectural style of the colonial era.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the 13 Arch Bridge is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. The surrounding forest area also looks particularly lush and vibrant during this time.

Conclusion: The 13 Arch Bridge in Kollam is a remarkable historical structure that holds great significance not just in the realm of engineering, but also as a symbol of Kerala’s colonial past. Despite the end of the era of meter gauge trains, the bridge continues to stand as a silent witness to a bygone time. For those who enjoy history, architecture, and nature, a visit to the 13 Arch Bridge is a must to experience the true essence of Kerala’s engineering legacy.