Bridge collapse cuts off villages in Jajpur

Kendrapada: A major portion of a 14-year-old bridge over the Dudhei river, a tributary of the Kharosotra, collapsed in Sujanpur gram panchayat in Jajpur district on early Thursday following continuous rains. Two persons who fell from the bridge managed to swim to safety.The 300-metre-long bridge, built in 2011, was the only link between the riverside villages under Sujanpur and Jajpur town. "There was no other alternative link for us to reach other villages. Now we will face difficulty in road communication," said Rabindra Rout of Sujanpur village."I have been crossing the bridge to reach the nearby markets traversing 5km to sell our vegetables. Now I will have to travel another 6km to sell my vegetables," said Indramani Jena of Sujanpur.Villagers demanded strict action against contractors and officials involved in the project. "It was just a miracle that nobody died in the bridge collapse as it happened early morning," said Rajat Behera of Sujanpur. Nagendra Behera, a local fisherman, said, "When I came out of my house I could hear a huge noise. Then there was a big crash. When I got near, I could see a part of the bridge was missing."When contacted, Ratnakar Dalei, superintending engineer (irrigation), Jajpur, said, "The bridge was built in 2011 by the panchayat raj department. After learning about the incident, me and other officials rushed to the spot. Prima facie we are yet to know the exact reason. There was no design or structural flaw and all parameters were met. We are investigating the incident."Many blamed illegal sand mining near the bridge pillars for weakening the structure. "Collapse of the 14-year-old bridge indicates a serious structural defect and poor construction or overloading," said Biswanath Behera, a retired engineer.Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Teacher's Day wishes, messages and Quotes !