The story of Hyderabad’s three bridges: A confluence of 400 years of history, severe floods and the city’s progress.

This bridge reflects the increasing urbanization of the city with modern facilities. Whereas Nashik Bridge is a symbol of the development and modern lifestyle of modern Hyderabad. It connects new parts of the city and along with transportation facilities tells the story of the rapidly changing face of the city. These three bridges have played an important role in the development of Hyderabad and even today represent the historical, cultural and modern perspective of the city. Through these bridges, a unique blend of Hyderabad’s rich heritage and modern progress can be seen.

1. Purana Pul (Derani Pul)
This is the oldest and most famous bridge of Hyderabad. It was built in 1578 AD during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah. This bridge was the first stone bridge built on the Musi River. It connected Hyderabad (Charminar) with Golconda Fort, which made the expansion of the city possible. This bridge was completely destroyed in the terrible flood of 1908 in which thousands of people lost their lives. It was rebuilt after the flood. This bridge is a silent witness to the more than 400 years old history of Hyderabad.

2. New Bridge (Mussi Bridge)
This is the second major bridge built after the old bridge. It was constructed in the year 1930. This new bridge was constructed parallel to the old bridge to handle the increasing traffic of Hyderabad. Modern technology was used in its construction. This bridge connects Afzal Ganj and Narayanguda and is still one of the busiest routes in Hyderabad. This is an excellent example of engineering of the Nizam era.

3. Nashik Bridge (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bridge)
This is the third major bridge which is known for its architecture. It was constructed in the year 1965. This bridge was constructed to meet the further expansion of Hyderabad city and increasing traffic demand. Its official name is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Bridge, but it is known as Nashik Bridge. This bridge connects Secunderabad (Old Airport Road) to Malakpet and other areas. Its special architectural style gives it a distinct identity from other bridges.

Great flood of 1908
There is a dark chapter in the history of these bridges. To understand the history of these bridges, it is important to know about the flood of 1908. There is a dark chapter in the history of these bridges. On 26 September 1908, a massive flood in the Musi River destroyed the old bridge and caused huge destruction in the entire city. It is estimated that about 15,000 people died. After this destruction, the then Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan started the reconstruction of the city. Taking lessons from the flood, emphasis was laid on city planning and new dams like Osman Sagar and Himayat Sagar were built so that such tragedies do not happen in future.