Jajpur: Danger is growing for the new bridge across Budha river, the only bridge that facilitates commuting link from Sathipur to the district headquarters of Jajpur. The danger is because of growing sand mining activities under the bridge.
It may be noted here that an old bridge at its place had collapsed August 22, 2011. Two spans and two pillars had caved in due to alleged sand mining. Later, the bridge was restored.
However, the condition of the bridge continued to deteriorate with plying of heavy vehicles. A new bridge was built near it four years ago.
It was learnt that no sand mine has been leased out within 500- metre perimeter of the Rudhia bridge. But mafia has been carrying out sand mining in the river near the bridge pillars, throwing all norms to the winds.
Even machines have been engaged to extract sand illegally, which has posed danger to the new bridge. There are a number of official guidelines governing the quantities of extraction and area of sand mining.
The Water Resources department is supposed to take action in case sand is being exploited.
It was alleged that mafia has been carrying out their illegal sand mining activities in collusion with some Revenue and police officials.
The strong water currents of Baitarani river usually hit the pillars of the bridge. Sand deposits around all the pillars work as deterrents against strong water currents from washing away their bases.
Jajpur tehsildar could not be available for reaction.
PNN
