Tragic Bridge Collapse in Cuttack: What Went Wrong?
Investigation Launched into Cuttack Bridge Mishap
Cuttack: A high-level technical committee has been established by the state Works Department to investigate a tragic accident that occurred during the construction of a bridge over the Kathajodi River in Khannagar, Cuttack, as confirmed by an official on Sunday.
The unfortunate incident resulted in the deaths of three workers, while two others suffered serious injuries.
The committee has been tasked with providing a comprehensive report detailing the causes of the accident and identifying those responsible.
An official statement from the Odisha Works Department on Sunday stated: “A high-level Technical Committee is hereby constituted with the following members to enquire into the causes of the fatal mishap that occurred on 03.05.2025 during execution of the project on improvement to Cuttack ring road to 6-Lane Standard from 19/600 Km to 21/700 km (Khannagar to Link Road) including 03-lane elevated corridor of 993 meter under State Plan. The Technical Committee will submit a detailed report along with the persons/entities responsible for such lapses to this Department within 15 days.”
The committee, led by the EIC-cum-Special Secretary to Government, includes the Chairman of the Works Department, the Chief Engineer Roads-II of Odisha, and the Additional District Magistrate (General) of Cuttack district.
In a statement to the media, Works Department Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan expressed his sorrow over the incident, acknowledging that errors by the agencies involved or the technical staff on-site likely contributed to the tragedy.
Reports indicate that the collapse occurred when a crane was lifting a pre-fabricated concrete slab for the bridge, resulting in the slab falling and crushing five individuals, including the three fatalities, on Saturday evening.
The two injured individuals are currently receiving treatment at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. In response to the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for the families of the deceased.