Girish Bharadwaj, 'Bridge Man of India', dies at 76
Padma Shri awardee Girish Bharadwaj, widely known as the 'Bridge Man of India' for building low-cost suspension bridges, died at a private hospital in Sullia, Karnataka, on 7 July 2026 at the age of 76. He had constructed nearly 140 suspension bridges across rural areas, significantly improving connectivity and safety for communities. Bharadwaj received the Padma Shri in 2017 for his contribution to society. His death prompted tributes from government and civil society, acknowledging his affordable engineering approach and long-standing dedication to rural development through durable, community-driven infrastructure.
Girish Bharadwaj dies at 76 (7 July 2026)
Known as the 'Bridge Man of India' for low-cost bridges
Built around 140 suspension bridges across rural India