Workers have completed the first temporary span across the Pamba at Maramon as preparations intensify for the 131st Maramon Convention. The project replaces traditional coconut-pole crossings with a modern temporary steel structure designed to carry heavy loads and allow controlled vehicle access during the event.
Maramon Convention bridge provides modern temporary crossing
The new Maramon Convention bridge is built from 700 mm diameter mild steel pipes and iron girders modelled on Bailey bridge designs. Engineers say the materials offer greater durability and faster on-site assembly than earlier makeshift solutions. Construction follows precise plans generated with laptop-based surveying systems and modern monitoring equipment to ensure accurate alignment and safe load distribution.
The first bridge, linking the Maramon bank to Cheppally purayidam, is complete. Piling work for the second span from Nedumpriyar bank and the main crossing from the Maramon Retreat Centre to the sandbank began recently. Prefabricated components manufactured in Ernakulam were transported and fitted on site, with some girders weighing up to 110 tonnes.
Designers have set the width of the main span in front of the retreat centre at four metres, with two additional spans each three metres wide. Although vehicle access to the riverbank will be restricted, the layout permits emergency services including fire engines and ambulances to reach the sandbank when necessary. Special arrangements have been made to allow boats to pass and to prevent obstruction at traditional ferry points.
To protect users and the structure, the bridge will have iron side railings and a five-millimetre steel plate deck over which a carpeted walkway will be laid for pedestrian comfort during the convention. The company leading the work, Avance Engineering Infrastructure of Ernakulam, says the design meets safety and operational requirements set by the convention organisers and the approving authority, Thrissur Engineering College.
A team of 20 workers, including diving specialists from Chambakkulam, is handling the assembly and piling operations. The company MD, Soni Skaria, said the contract was awarded after reviewing the published tender and that the firm will maintain and store the structure after the convention concludes. Key steel girders and components will be kept at the Cheppally river site for reuse, with the company offering a 15-year maintenance window for the temporary bridge.
Organisers expect the bridge to be ready before the convention opening, which begins on 8 February. Work will be completed by 25 January, allowing time for final safety checks and adjustments. Officials emphasise that the structure is a cost-effective solution built with minimal environmental disturbance, replacing earlier methods that relied on timber and other temporary supports.
Local leaders say the temporary bridge will support the safe movement of the thousands who attend the Maramon Convention each year. By combining modern engineering techniques, prefabricated steelwork and careful site management, the project aims to ensure both efficient construction and reliable public access during the event.
Key Takeaways:
- Maramon Convention bridge uses large mild steel pipes and iron girders to create a durable temporary crossing for the annual Maramon Convention.
- Advanced survey equipment and prefabricated components ensure accurate, faster construction and safe access for attendees and emergency vehicles.
- Ernakulam-based firm Avance Engineering Infrastructure is leading construction with modular parts brought from Kochi and plans to dismantle and store the structure after the event.
