Concerns Rise Over Bridge Collapse in Borkhola Amid Heavy Rainfall
Bridge Collapse Raises Safety Concerns
A portion of collapsed under-construction bridge over the Jatinga River in Borkhola (Photo: AT)
Silchar, May 16: The recent heavy downpours in the Barak Valley have raised alarms regarding infrastructure safety, particularly after a segment of an under-construction bridge over the Jatinga River near Purandarpur Sibbari collapsed on Saturday.
Part of the iron framework of the bridge was swept away as the swollen Jatinga River overflowed due to relentless rainfall, especially in the nearby hilly regions.
This incident has led to significant concern among local inhabitants, many of whom have raised questions about the quality and execution of the construction work.
Residents have claimed that despite several months of construction, the project has not been conducted in a scientifically sound manner.
“This is a significant issue; it is a serious incident. Currently, we cannot fully determine the extent of the damage,” remarked a local resident regarding the collapse at Purandarpur village.
Residents are calling for a comprehensive investigation into the incident, urging authorities to examine whether negligence or the use of substandard materials led to the partial failure of the structure.
The event has also reignited worries about the capacity of ongoing infrastructure projects in the Barak Valley to endure heavy monsoon conditions, particularly in areas prone to flash floods and rising water levels.
Borkhola MLA Kishor Nath, along with officials from the Public Works Department (PWD), is anticipated to visit the site later today.
In a statement, Nath indicated that the damage might have resulted from exceptionally heavy rainfall in the upstream hilly areas.
“This could have occurred due to the intense rainfall, especially in the hills. I will investigate the situation and discuss necessary corrective actions with the authorities,” the MLA stated.
Meanwhile, local residents are urging the state government and the PWD to promptly evaluate the stability of the remaining sections of the bridge and ensure accountability if any construction standard violations are discovered during the investigation.
The RCC BUG bridge over the Jatinga River, which connects Badarpur Part-I and Badarpur Part-II, had its foundation laid on March 1, 2024. The project, estimated to cost approximately Rs 10.77 crore, is being managed under the Executive Engineer of the PWRD Borkhola and Katigorah Territorial Road Division.