[Watch] Under-Construction Bridge Collapses In Odisha’s Kendrapada

Kendrapada: Labourers had a close shave after a portion of an under-construction bridge collapsed and broke into four pieces near Tinimuhani Chhak, on the outskirts of Odisha’s Kendrapada town, on Wednesday.

According to sources, ARSS Infrastructure Projects Limited had started construction of the bridge over Gobari river about two years ago. The project, which links Gulnagar Chatipola with Garapur Kali temple, is being executed by R&B division of the Works department.

Immediately after the the incident, local BJP leader Bhuban Mohan Lenka visited the spot and mounted a scathing attack on the state government for the mishap.

“All from the top to the bottom in the department are neck-deep in corruption and the bridge collapse is the sample of so-called development agenda of the state government,” Lenka alleged.

Locals alleged that the bridge came crashing down since sub-standard materials were being used in its construction. They also blamed the administration and the department concerned a for the bridge collapse. The work was not being properly monitored, they rued.

Meanwhile, no official had reached the spot to take stock of the situation till 3.30 pm. Our correspondent tried to contact some officials of the department, but no reaction was available. After the mishap, officials of ARSS who were in the area had fled the scene, sources claimed.