Given Bihar’s current state, it’s hardly surprising that bridges are falling like ninepins. People have become so cynical that they doubt a change in government will make a significant difference.
The collapse of Bihar’s 13th bridge within 20 days set a record. In the eighth century, Adi Shankaracharya clashed with Mandan Mishra in Mahishi hamlet, Saharsa district. A British-made bridge in Fatuha, erected 136 years ago, collapsed and should have been renovated or replaced. Interestingly, the majority of the collapsed bridges were either under construction or had recently been completed and opened for traffic. Fortunately, these accidents did not result in any fatalities. So far, the government has suspended 15 engineers, an average of one per bridge.
Increased rainfall and rising river levels pose a risk to bridges.
Taxpayers have lost hundreds of crores of rupees, which is often disregarded. However, there has been little remedial activity. New bridges, such as those at Bhagalpur and Sattarghat, are known to collapse shortly after construction. Reasons for failure include defective materials, insufficient raw resources (e.g. steel and cement), poor design and planning, and failure to prioritize durability.
Contractors prioritize timely approval and payment for their bills. Engineers will be back in service after the controversy over the incidents passes and things return to “normal”. Politicians, who have nothing to lose, control the engineers and contractors. Until now, no politician in Bihar has been penalized for corruption and nepotism, which are underlying issues in the state.
Given the circumstances in Bihar, it’s hardly surprising that bridges are collapsing. People’s cynicism has led them to doubt the impact of a change in government. However, the infrastructural development story is similar across the country. Airport canopies are collapsing, subterranean tunnels flood during rainy seasons, and fissures form in prominent constructions like as the sea-bridge connecting Mumbai and Navi Mumbai. The government must address structural concerns to maintain public infrastructure’s safety and lifespan.
ABHISHEK VERMA
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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