The Gopalganj district administration in Bihar is encountering a significant challenge in moving the world’s largest and heaviest Shivling because of a deteriorating bridge over the Gandak River, also known as the Narayani River. The Shivling arrived in Gopalganj, with cracks discovered on the bridge during inspections, leading to safety concerns. Weighing 210 tonnes and loaded on a 106-wheel trailer, the Shivling’s transportation is deemed highly risky due to the bridge’s limited load-bearing capacity.
Teams from Bihar Rajya Pul Nirman Nigam Limited (BRPNNL) and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have been summoned to assess the bridge’s condition before allowing the Shivling’s transport. Minister Ashok Choudhary is expected to visit Gopalganj to evaluate the situation and inspect the bridge personally. The Shivling, originating from Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, took 32 days to reach Gopalganj after traveling 3,178 kilometers, en route to the Virat Ramayan Temple in Motihari, East Champaran.
Alternative routes to East Champaran have been considered, but both present challenges. One route through the 70 Ghat bridge in Dumariaghat, Gopalganj, lacks the necessary structural integrity and load-bearing capacity for the Shivling’s weight. The other route via Bettiah city in West Champaran also requires detailed inspections of bridges and culverts due to the massive load. The administration is exploring various options to ensure the safe transportation of the Shivling.
