Bridge Collapse Disrupts Traffic in Bhagalpur, Bihar
Incident Overview
In Bhagalpur, Bihar, a stone between two pillars of the Vikramshila Bridge collapsed into the Ganga River, leading to the complete closure of the bridge and significant traffic disruptions. This bridge serves as a crucial link between the Purvanchal and Seemanchal regions. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries resulting from this incident. District Magistrate Naval Kishore Chaudhary, along with SSP Pramod Kumar Yadav, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vikas Kumar, City DSP Ajay Kumar Chaudhary, and Traffic DSP Sanjay Kumar, promptly arrived at the scene.
Traffic Management and Safety Measures
Authorities have halted all traffic on the bridge and redirected vehicles to alternative routes. Individuals present at the site were safely evacuated. The incident occurred late in the evening after a 10-inch expansion joint began to sink. Around 12:35 AM, a stone near pillar number 133 started to give way and subsequently fell into the river. Speaking to reporters, District Magistrate Naval Kishore Chaudhary stated that the stone collapsed shortly after the evacuation of people, which was executed efficiently by local officials and the SHO.
Impact on Local Traffic
He noted that within 15 minutes of the evacuation, the stone fell into the Ganga River, and there were no vehicles on it at the time. The bridge has been sealed off from both Bhagalpur and Nawgachia sides, and traffic has been suspended. Alternative routes cannot be initiated during the night. Those wishing to travel to Bhagalpur can approach from the Munger side. Efforts are underway to establish alternative arrangements. The incident caused panic as long queues of vehicles formed on the bridge, but police vigilance prevented a major disaster. The bridge is now closed off from both directions.
Bridge Significance and Previous Concerns
The Vikramshila Bridge accommodates over 30,000 vehicles daily and connects Bhagalpur with 16 districts, including Seemanchal. Constructed during Rabri Devi's tenure as Chief Minister, the bridge has previously raised concerns due to recurring cracks in its expansion joints. Recently, the administration denied reports of damage to the bridge's bearings, assuring that there is no threat to safety.