Surat, India - The Surat-Olpad city bus service has resumed operations after an eight-month suspension due to the collapse of a portion of the Saroli Railway Over Bridge. The newly constructed bridge, costing 32 crores, was inaugurated on Sunday, with city bus services restarting on Monday.

The Saroli Railway Over Bridge, built in 1990, collapsed on August 18, leading to the suspension of the city bus route operated by the municipal corporation between Surat and Olpad. Route 108, which was essential for the mobility of the area's residents, was halted when an alternative route via Jothan was introduced.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel virtually attended the inauguration of the reconstructed three-lane bridge, which was organized by the municipality on Sunday. The reopening of the bridge has provided significant relief to commuters traveling between Surat and Olpad.

During the suspension of the bus service, rickshaws operated between Ramnagar and Olpad, often carrying more passengers than their capacity. With limited options, passengers were subjected to threats, overcharging, and mistreatment by illegal rickshaw drivers. The resumption of the city bus service is expected to put an end to the passengers' struggles and provide a safer and more regulated transportation option.