The British-era bridge in Morbi, Gujarat, collapsed, and hundreds of people lost their lives. Many of them are still missing. In the wake of this incident, the Odisha government is now inspecting its hanging bridges. The two hanging bridges are located over the Mahanadi River, connecting the famous Dhableswar Shiva temple, and the other is in the Rayagada district, over the Nagavali River. The bridges are now closed for repair.
Cuttack Bridge in Odisha Closed For 2 Days
The 254-metre-long Cuttack bridge in Odisha had a capacity of 1,500 people in 2006 when it was built. Since it was not maintained properly, the number fell to 600. The temple sees a huge crowd on Mondays, especially during Kartik month. But this time the administration allowed only 200 people at a time on the bridge.
The administration informed that since there were cracks discovered on the bridge, section 144 has been imposed at the temple. For restoration and the safety of the devotees, the bridge will be closed for two days from Tuesday. The roads connecting to the bridge on both sides will also be closed.
Inspection of the Suspension bridge over river Mahanadi connecting to Dhabaleswar Pitha by the Principal Secretary RD Department with EIC RW, CE Building & Bridge, CCE RW Cuttack Circle and other field engineers. Instructed to submit proposal for immediate repair. pic.twitter.com/xMn51qG0MQ
— Odisha Rural (@RDOdisha) October 15, 2022
Also Read: This Bridge In Manali Is Named After The Movie Bang Bang And Must Be On Your Bucket List
Nagavali Bridge Shut Since One Month
The Nagavali bridge in the Rayagada district has been a major attraction for tourists. This bridge is 151 metres long and was built in the year 2011. The bridge connects the town of Rayagada with the tribal villagers on the other side of the bridge.
The district administration has closed down the bridge that hangs over the Nagavali river. A team of experts submitted a report and expressed concern. Keeping that in mind and also the several accidents that have happened at this spot, the bridge has been shut since a month ago. The administration said that the reopening would be decided after having a word with the engineers.
Also Read: Gujarat’s Cable Bridge In Morbi Collapses; 132 Tourists Dead As Rescue Operations Carry Ones
The maintenance of bridges is hence very essential. Especially, after the heartbreaking Morbi bridge tragedy.
Cover Image Courtesy: Flickr