A portion of a newly constructed bridge over the Bakra river in Pararia village of Bihar’s Araria district collapsed on June 18, 2024. The bridge, built by the State government, was still closed to the public as approach roads were yet to be completed. The bridge was meant to connect Kursa Kanta and Sikty areas of Araria district.
According to reports, the collapse occurred due to the negligence of the construction company and the department. This incident, captured in a video, highlighted the swift collapse of the bridge, tilting on one side before falling into the fast-flowing Bakra River. Despite the significant material and financial investment, the bridge collapsed before its official inauguration.
Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in the incident. However, the collapse has raised concerns about the quality of infrastructure projects and the importance of thorough safety evaluations before opening new constructions to the public. Sikti MLA Vijay Kumar demanded an investigation into the collapse, emphasizing the need for accountability in such cases.
This collapse is not an isolated incident, as similar events have been reported in different parts of Bihar in recent months. In March, another under-construction bridge over the Kosi river collapsed in Supaul district, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. These incidents highlight the challenges and risks associated with infrastructure development projects in the region.
The collapse of the bridge in Pararia village serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety measures and thorough inspections during construction. As authorities investigate the cause of the collapse, it is crucial to address any lapses in the construction process to prevent similar incidents in the future. The safety of public infrastructure should be a top priority to ensure the well-being of the community and prevent avoidable disasters.
