Mandi in Himachal Pradesh is popularly known as "Choti Kashi" due to its resemblance with Kashi. The famous Victoria Bridge of here links Purani Mandi and Mandi town. The majestic ruler of Mandi, Raja Vijay Singh built this mesmerizing bridge with the help of Britishers in 1877. The Bridge reminds the hanging Victoria Bridge on

Thames River The River Thames ( ), known alternatively in parts as the River Isis, is a river that flows through southern England including London. At , it is the longest river entirely in England and the second-longest in the United Kingdom, after the R ...

. It is like stylistic Jhulla bridges but surprisingly it can carry small vehicles. However, as this is a value bridge to

Government of Himachal Pradesh The Government of Himachal Pradesh also known as the State Government of Himachal Pradesh, or locally as State Government, is the supreme governing authority of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It consists of an executive branch, led by th ...

, CM Jai Ram Thakur in 2019 built and inaugurated another bridge named Sardar Patel Bridge (or New Victoria Bridge) near Victoria Bridge and it was opened for transport. Victoria Bridge was closed for all means of transport after its 142 years of service. In 2020, a majestic thanksgiving ceremony was organized by Himachal Pradesh Government's Mandi branch, Mandi council and National Culture Fund. The Bridge was decorated with flowers and carpets and a worshipping "yagna" ceremony was offered. This gentle gesture was done to show respect to the Majestic bridge which suffered so much onslaughts of river flood but stood tall and gave service for 142 years. The bridge would be maintained and rigorously repaired, assured Ministry, as it is cynosure of Tourism Industry.

References

{{reflist Buildings and structures in Mandi district Bridges in Himachal Pradesh British-era buildings in Himachal Pradesh