Bridge Collapse Sparks Concerns Over Infrastructure Safety in Bihar

A part of Vikramshila Setu bridge over the Ganga river in Bihar's Bhagalpur district collapsed, with no casualties reported. The incident led to traffic being blocked, and an engineering committee has been appointed to investigate the collapse. Past concerns over the bridge's integrity have been noted.

A bridge section over the Ganga river collapsed in Bihar's Bhagalpur district early on Monday, officials confirmed. Fortunately, the incident did not result in any casualties. The 4.7-kilometer-long Vikramshila Setu, linking Bhagalpur and Naugachia, suffered a structural failure near pillar number 133.

District Magistrate Nawal Kishor Choudhary noted that at around 12:50 am, a gap appeared, causing a major slab to fall into the river. Prompt action by officials ensured the removal of all vehicles and people from the site, averting any injury or loss of life. Traffic has been halted on both sides of the bridge, with authorities recommending alternative routes via Munger.

To determine the cause of the collapse, a specialist engineering committee has been set up. Previously, videos highlighted the deteriorating state of the bridge's protective walls, prompting assurances from the former Road Construction Minister that necessary repairs would be enacted.