Chandrapur (Rayagada): The Chauladhua Bridge near Hanumantapur under this block in Rayagada district is on the verge of collapse.
Despite the looming threat, heavy vehicles ply on the bridge on a daily basis, putting the lives of commuters and pedestrians at risk. The 40-year-old bridge, built using stones, is in a dilapidated condition. Despite repeated complaints by the locals to renovate it, no steps have been taken in this regard.
“We have been alerting officials concerned that the lifespan of the bridge is over and it needs to be renovated or rebuilt. But, the officials are least bothered,” a local said.
Portions of the bridge wall are falling as the concrete is losing its hold. This is posing danger to motorists. However, as there is no warning, heavy vehicles continue to ply on the structure.
“Something serious might occur if the bridge is not renovated in time. The administration will wake up only after a mishap occurs,” former block chairperson Bhim Gagerenga said.
People from many villages in this block have to depend on the bridge for their daily work and thousands of vehicles use it to reach the block. However, the administration is turning a blind eye to the renovation of the bridge.
“During my tenure, I had written to the works department twice for the renovation of the bridge. However, the contractors did not do their work properly. They simply put little work without checking the internal structure,” Bhim added.
When contacted, works department executive officer Simadri Nayak agreed that the bridge needed renovation and assured that he would look into it.
“Before it’s too late, let the officials ban the movement of heavy vehicles on the bridge and take immediate steps to renovate it. They should also put up warning boards about the condition of the bridge,” Bhim said.
PNN
