India is home to some of the most stunning infrastructural marvels in the world, and its bridges are no exception. From connecting remote regions to easing traffic in bustling cities, these structures reflect modern engineering and development. If you’re wondering which is the longest bridge in India or where these colossal structures are located, here’s a comprehensive look at the top 10 longest bridges in India that truly define scale and significance.
Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Dhola-Sadiya Bridge) – Assam (9.15 km)
The Bhupen Hazarika Setu, also known as the Dhola-Sadiya Bridge, is the longest bridge in India, stretching 9.15 kilometers across the Lohit River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. It connects the Assam and Arunachal Pradesh states, playing a crucial role in defense movement and civilian transportation.
Inaugurated in 2017, this bridge has strategic importance and can support the movement of military tanks. It drastically reduces travel time and boosts trade between the northeast and mainland India.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2017
- River: Lohit (Brahmaputra)
- Connects: Assam and Arunachal Pradesh
Dibang River Bridge – Arunachal Pradesh (6.2 km)
The second longest bridge in India is the Dibang River Bridge. It spans 6.2 kilometers and was constructed to provide all-weather connectivity in one of the most remote and rainfall-heavy regions of the country.
Its primary function is to facilitate transportation in the Dibang Valley, aiding both the Indian Army and civilians. Built by the Border Roads Organization (BRO), the bridge showcases remarkable engineering in challenging terrain.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2018
- River: Dibang
- Location: Arunachal Pradesh
Mahatma Gandhi Setu – Bihar (5.75 km)
Connecting Patna to Hajipur across the Ganges River, Mahatma Gandhi Setu is one of the most well-known and historically significant bridges in India. For many years, it was the longest bridge in India before the newer structures took the lead.
Opened in 1982, it remains vital for the daily commute, trade, and transport in Bihar. Despite being decades old, it continues to serve as a lifeline for the region.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 1982
- River: Ganga
- Connects: Patna and Hajipur
Bandra-Worli Sea Link – Maharashtra (5.6 km)
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link is an architectural masterpiece that connects Bandra in the Western Suburbs to Worli in South Mumbai. Officially named the Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link, it is one of the longest bridges in India built over the sea.
This cable-stayed bridge not only shortens commute time but also adds visual charm to the Mumbai skyline. It’s a symbol of India’s urban infrastructure capabilities.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2009
- Type: Cable-stayed sea bridge
- Connects: Bandra to Worli
Bogibeel Bridge – Assam (4.94 km)
The Bogibeel Bridge is India’s longest rail-cum-road bridge. It connects Dibrugarh and Dhemaji in Assam and spans across the mighty Brahmaputra River.
With a double-line broad-gauge railway track and a three-lane road above it, this bridge is vital for both civilian travel and military logistics. It was inaugurated on the birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 2018.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2018
- Type: Rail-cum-road
- River: Brahmaputra
Vikramshila Setu – Bihar (4.7 km)
Another significant bridge over the Ganges, the Vikramshila Setu links Barari Ghat with Naugachia in Bihar. Opened in 2001, this bridge has eased traffic congestion and promoted connectivity in the Bhagalpur region.
Named after the ancient Vikramshila University, the bridge plays an essential role in linking northeastern Bihar with the rest of the state.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2001
- River: Ganga
- Location: Bhagalpur, Bihar
Vembanad Rail Bridge – Kerala (4.62 km)
Vembanad Rail Bridge is the longest railway bridge in India. It connects Edappally and Vallarpadam in Kochi, Kerala. Primarily used for freight transport to and from the Vallarpadam International Container Terminal, it serves the growing logistics and trade industry in southern India.
The bridge spans the beautiful Vembanad Lake, enhancing the state’s infrastructural development without harming its natural beauty.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2011
- Type: Rail bridge
- Location: Kochi, Kerala
Digha–Sonpur Bridge (JP Setu) – Bihar (4.56 km)
Officially called the J.P. Setu after Jayaprakash Narayan, this rail-cum-road bridge connects Digha Ghat in Patna with Sonpur in Saran district. It serves both passenger trains and vehicles, improving access across the Ganga in northern Bihar.
The Digha–Sonpur Bridge is a key component of Bihar’s growing road and rail infrastructure.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2016
- River: Ganga
- Connects: Patna and Sonpur
Arrah–Chhapra Bridge – Bihar (4.35 km)
Also known as Veer Kunwar Singh Setu, this bridge connects Arrah and Chhapra across the Ganges River in Bihar. It reduces the travel distance between northern and southern Bihar drastically.
Inaugurated in 2017, it is the longest multi-span extradosed bridge in India and is named after the legendary freedom fighter Veer Kunwar Singh.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2017
- Type: Extradosed bridge
- River: Ganga
Godavari Fourth Bridge – Andhra Pradesh (4.13 km)
Located in Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, the Godavari Fourth Bridge spans the Godavari River. It was constructed to ease congestion on the existing road and railway bridges in the region.
The bridge plays a significant role in the transport and movement of goods between coastal and central Andhra regions.
Quick Facts:
- Opened: 2015
- River: Godavari
- Location: Rajahmundry
Why These Bridges Are Vital for India’s Growth
Each of these longest bridges in India serves as more than just a structure—they’re vital connectors between cities, states, and cultures. They help cut down travel time, promote economic development, boost tourism, and improve national security in border regions.
As India expands its infrastructure under Smart City and Bharatmala projects, the focus on long-span bridges will continue to grow.
Challenges in Building Long Bridges in India
Constructing these engineering marvels is no small feat. Builders face challenges such as:
- Unpredictable weather conditions
- River current management
- Geographical and seismic instability
- Environmental and ecological impact
Despite these obstacles, India’s bridge engineers and planners have delivered outstanding results across terrains.
Upcoming Mega Bridge Projects
Some future projects that may soon enter this list include:
- Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) – expected to be 21.8 km
- Kacchi Dargah–Bidupur Bridge in Bihar
- New Brahmaputra bridges in the northeast
These projects highlight India’s continued investment in strengthening connectivity and promoting regional development.
FAQs About the Longest Bridges in India
Which is the longest bridge in India?
The Bhupen Hazarika Setu (Dhola–Sadiya Bridge) is currently the longest bridge in India, at 9.15 km.
What is the longest railway bridge in India?
The Vembanad Rail Bridge in Kerala is the longest railway bridge, stretching 4.62 km.
Are all the longest bridges built over rivers?
Most of the longest bridges in India are built over major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Godavari.
Which is the longest sea bridge in India?
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link in Mumbai is the longest sea bridge in India.
Do these bridges support military movement?
Yes, several bridges like the Bhupen Hazarika Setu and Bogibeel Bridge are designed to support heavy military transport.