Anderson Bridge was built across the mouth of the Singapore River and was opened in 1910. It was named after the Governor of the Straits Settelments at that time, Sir John Anderson. This bridge was constructed to ease the traffic congestion along Cavenagh Bridge which was unable to cope with increasing traffic. After Anderson Bridge was built, Cavenagh Bridge was reserved solely for pedestrain use while Anderson Bridge, with its powerful ribs of iron and excellent engineering work, would accomodate heavy vehicles such as motor cars and electric trams. Today, Anderson Bridge continues to serve as a carriageway for many vehicles travelling between Connaught Drive and Shenton Way.
Constructed in 1868, Singapore's only suspension bridge was named after Sir William Orfeur Cavenagh, the last India-appointed Governor of Singapore (1859-1867).
Before Cavenagh Bridge was built, a person had to pay a fee of 1/4 cent to take a ferry across the Singapore River. After its construction, the bridge provided a link for those who wanted to cross from Commercial Square (Raffles Place) to the Government Area (Civic District).
In 1910, when Anderson Bridge was opened, all heavy traffic was diverted to the next bridge. The use of Cavenagh Bridge was prohibited to any vehicle exceeding 152 kg and also to all cattle and horses. This is because the structure of the bridge could not withstand the growing traffic along the bridge. Later, it became a bridge for pesdestrains only. In 1987, Cavenagh Bridge was refurbished to strengthen its structure. It is today the oldest bridge standing in its original form across the Singapore River.
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