The present bridge over the Vishwamitri river, connecting the Sayajiganj area to the Kirti Mandir side, has roots that trace back to the Mughal era of Baroda.
The first bridge built on the site was actually constructed by Muzafar II in the 16th century. This bridge was later improved upon by the Mughals sometime between the 16th and 18th centuries. After the Gaekwads conquered Baroda in the 18th century, it was reconstructed by the Gaekwads in the early 1800s.
The bridge was made from stones and rested upon two tiers of massive arches running underneath it. During those times, one side of the bridge had expansive ghats on both banks of the river. These ghats were used by the people for bathing and washing their clothes. Although some portions of the ghat still exist, most have vanished over the years.
A crocodile and a fish :
If you visit the ghats today, you will see two huge pieces of stone carved into a fish and a crocodile lying around. These sculptures were commissioned by Malharrao Gaekwad. In ancient times, these stones were placed at specific levels on the steps. It is said that these were indicators of flood levels in different areas of the city. When the water of the river reached the level of one of these indicators, flood situations would be predicted in various areas of the city. Though it is also said that these statues were placed here for aesthetic purposes.
Now known as the Kala Ghoda Bridge because of its proximity to the Equestrian Statue of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, the old bridge has been rebuilt in concrete to meet the needs of changing times.
The early form of the bridge, shown in the pic, was first built during times of Muzaffar II in 1500s. It was recast during Mughal rule. The pic above depicts the bridge that was recast in stone by the illustrious Gaekwar in early 1800s.