Under-construction bridge of Works Dept collapses; low-quality work alleged

Kendrapara: A bridge of Works department collapsed today while its construction was underway on Gobari River near Mahipal locality in Kendrapara. However, locals have alleged low-quality of work.

Although some workers were present at the spot, no casualties have been reported in the incident.

According to a source, construction of the ambitious project was started at a cost of around Rs 12 crore on the bypass road connecting Tinimuhani Square and Bus Stand in Kendrapara town. A 36 metre-long concrete span of the 300 metre-long bridge which was erected nearly 14 hours ago has fallen down.

“In order to sort out the problem of traffic snarls and congestion, the bridge project was started. After completion, it would have served the long-standing demand of local denizens. As ill luck could have it, the structure has collapsed due to low-quality of work by Works department,” some residents said.

Despite repeated allegations, the engineer concerned was never inspecting the work, they added.