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Musallam Jung Bridge Hyderabad
Musallam Jung Bridge: A Sunday Retreat in Hyderabad
A New Sunday Hangout Spot
The Musallam Jung Bridge, commonly referred to by its corrupted name “Muslim Jung Pool or Bridge,” has transformed into a popular Sunday destination in Hyderabad. Families, newly married couples, and children now frequent this historic bridge, making it a bustling spot every weekend. The bridge has become a “must-stop” location for those traveling from the Old City, Shamshabad, Aramgarh, and beyond to the newer parts of Hyderabad. Its appeal lies not only in its historical significance but also in the vibrant activity that surrounds it, particularly the feeding of pigeons.
Pigeon Feeding: A New Attraction
One of the most engaging activities at the Musallam Jung Bridge is pigeon feeding. Thousands of pigeons flock to the bridge, turning it into an unofficial pigeon feeding point. This activity has become especially popular with children, who eagerly anticipate stopping at the bridge to feed the birds. Parents often indulge their children, pausing their journey to allow them to run around and interact with the pigeons. The bridge also serves as a picturesque backdrop for families who capture these moments on their mobile phones.
Junaid, a regular visitor to the bridge with his wife and three-year-old daughter, shared, “Children force us to stop for some time while passing through the bridge. They enjoy running around and feeding pigeons.” This sentiment is echoed by many families who have made the Musallam Jung Bridge a regular stop on their Sunday outings.
Vendors Benefit from the Growing Popularity
The increased footfall at the Musallam Jung Bridge has also provided an economic opportunity for local vendors. Two vendors, stationed at either end of the bridge, sell grains to visitors who wish to feed the pigeons. A small pack of grains costs Rs. 20, making it an affordable activity for families. One of the vendors, a woman who sells wheat, dal, and jowar, shared her earnings: “I earn around Rs. 500 on any regular day except when it rains. On public holidays when there is a crowd, I earn Rs. 1,000.”
The vendors’ presence adds to the charm of the bridge, offering a convenient way for visitors to participate in the pigeon feeding tradition while also supporting the local economy.
Historical Significance of Musallam Jung Bridge
The Musallam Jung Bridge holds historical importance in Hyderabad’s architectural and cultural heritage. Built by the sixth Nizam, Mir Mahboob Ali Khan, in 1893, the bridge was designed to connect the city with its then-peripheral areas. Construction took four years, and the bridge was officially opened to the public in 1897. Despite being damaged in the devastating floods of 1908, the bridge was rebuilt, preserving its legacy as a vital link between different parts of the city.
Historians note that the construction of the Musallam Jung Bridge was necessitated by the growing connectivity needs of Hyderabad’s expanding population. At the time, the Puranapul Bridge and Afzalgunj Bridge were the primary connections between the southern and northern parts of the city. However, as new settlements emerged in the north, the Musallam Jung Bridge became an essential addition to the city’s infrastructure.
The Parallel Bridge: Addressing Modern Needs
While the Musallam Jung Bridge continues to be a cherished historical site, it was recognized that the bridge’s narrow structure could no longer accommodate the increasing traffic demands. To address this issue, a parallel bridge costing Rs. 11 crore was constructed and opened to the public a decade ago. This modern bridge was built to alleviate the traffic congestion that had become a problem on the Musallam Jung Bridge. Despite the new construction, the original bridge remains a favorite among locals for its cultural significance and the unique experience it offers on Sundays.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on recent observations and historical data about the Musallam Jung Bridge. It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.
