Recent Incident in Saran
On July 2024, an old British-era bridge in Saran district, Bihar, collapsed, injuring two people. This incident is the tenth bridge collapse in Bihar in just over two weeks, highlighting severe infrastructure issues in the state.
Previous Incidents
Among recent collapses was a newly constructed bridge over the Bakra River in Araria district. Built at a cost of Rs 12 crore, the bridge was yet to be opened to the public when it collapsed. This incident is attributed to possible construction negligence.
Causes and Reactions
The exact cause of the Saran bridge collapse is under investigation, with initial reports suggesting structural weakness due to age. Local authorities, including Sikti MLA Vijay Kumar Mandal, have demanded accountability from construction companies and a thorough investigation into the frequent bridge collapses. Concerns over construction quality, maintenance, and oversight have been raised, calling for immediate action to ensure public safety and prevent further incidents.
Impact and Response
These frequent incidents underscore the urgent need for improving infrastructure quality and maintenance practices in Bihar. The state government has been urged to take stringent measures against construction negligence and to implement robust safety protocols for both new and existing structures.
