HIDDEN ARCH BRIDGE IN TAIPING 

 Arch bridges built with stones, bricks or wood have a long history.  Builders in early civilizations had constructed various beautiful arch bridges some of which are still in existence. 

In Taiping there is a unique and beautiful arch bridge built of bricks across a stream from the waterfalls. This bridge which is more than 100 years old is missed by many visitors because it is abandoned and overgrown with undergrowth. It is located on the left hand side of the road that leads to the well known Hindu temple - Thanneermalai and also to the first Taiping reservoir where water is collected from the magnificent and famous waterfall.  

 Apparently, the bridge was built as access to the first swimming pool known then as the English Swimming pool which later on was taken over by the New Club of Taiping. The swimming pool which collects the water from the waterfall has been abandoned for almost 20 years.

The dimensions of the brick arch bridge are as follows: 

length; 60 feet,  width of parapet : 5 feet,  pathway: 2 feet,

height: from the river bed: 15 feet    

 An interesting feature of the bridge is the circular outlet at the top on one side of the arch. This is to allow water to flow when the water level is very high.

  

Heritage enthusiasts can play their part to spruce up this abandoned bridge and publicize this as many people may not be aware of this piece of engineering art.