Mangaluru: Renowned engineer and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Girish Bhardwaj, popularly known as India’s “Bridge Man,” passed away on Tuesday morning at a private hospital in Sullia following heart-related complications. He was 76.
Dr. Bhardwaj was widely admired for constructing more than 120 low-cost suspension bridges—with some estimates placing the number at over 140—across Karnataka, Kerala, Odisha, Telangana and several other states. His innovative and eco-friendly bridges transformed connectivity in remote rural regions, benefiting thousands of people.
Born on May 2, 1950, in Sullia, Dr. Bhardwaj graduated in Mechanical Engineering from PES Engineering College, Mandya, in 1973. His pioneering work began in 1989, when he built his first low-cost suspension bridge across the Payaswini River in his native village of Aramburu, providing a lasting solution to transportation challenges faced by local residents.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to rural infrastructure and community development, the Government of India conferred the Padma Shri on him in 2017.
Leaders and well-wishers from across the country expressed grief over his demise.
Legislative Council member Kishore Kumar paid tribute on social media, describing Dr. Bhardwaj as the “Bridge Man” whose contribution to improving rural connectivity was unparalleled. He said the nation had lost a visionary engineer whose work would continue to inspire generations and prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family.
