Bhagalpur Bridge Collapsed Twice Under Construction
Bridge Collapse in Bihar: A Viral Video
On Sunday, June 4, 2023, an under-construction bridge over the Ganga river in Bihar collapsed, gaining widespread attention after a video of the incident went viral on social media. The bridge, intended to connect Khagaria district with Bhagalpur, suffered a catastrophic failure.
Deliberate Destruction Due to Design Flaws
According to the state government, the bridge collapse was not accidental but rather a deliberate act necessitated by inherent design flaws. To substantiate this claim, the government had engaged IIT-Roorkee to conduct a study, which revealed serious safety concerns. Fearing potential casualties, the government opted to dismantle the bridge without waiting for the final report.
Allegations of Corruption Surface
The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has alleged that corruption was the root cause behind the bridge collapse. Demanding a thorough investigation, the BJP aims to uncover any irregularities surrounding the construction project.
No Casualties, but a Missing Security Guard
Thankfully, no casualties were reported in the incident. However, a security guard who was on duty at the bridge remains missing, adding a concerning dimension to the situation.
Government Actions: Suspension and Future Contracts
The bridge construction was entrusted to a private company, and in response to the collapse, the government has taken significant actions. The executive engineer of the bridge construction department has been suspended, and there are indications that the company may face a ban on future government contracts.
Quality Concerns and Safety Measures
The bridge collapse has raised doubts about the overall quality of construction projects in Bihar. It serves as a reminder of the pressing need for enhanced safety measures at construction sites to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Preventing Recurrence: Government’s Pledge
In light of the bridge collapse, the government has affirmed its commitment to preventing such incidents from occurring again. Concrete steps will be taken to address the underlying issues and ensure robust safety standards are implemented on construction sites across the region.
By prioritizing accountability, thorough investigations, and stringent safety protocols, the government aims to restore public trust and ensure the well-being of its citizens.
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