Patna: A bridge under construction in the Dhibra area of Patna, collapsed on Thursday, leaving one labourer critically injured and exposing serious concerns about construction quality and administrative oversight.
The bridge, part of a road connecting Vijay Singh Path to Dhibra, gave way suddenly while workers were on site. Two labourers were trapped beneath the rubble; one was rescued using a JCB machine and admitted to hospital in critical condition, while the other survived by taking shelter beneath a culvert.
Local residents have accused the contractor and authorities of gross negligence, claiming the bridge was built directly on soil without sturdy pillars or a proper foundation. Villagers allege that substandard materials were used and steel reinforcement bars were omitted, raising fears about the safety of another nearby bridge being constructed in a similar manner.
“The bridge was like a house of cards,” said several residents, including Anil Kumar, Ramji, and Sudarshan Kumar, who called for strict action against those responsible. They demanded an immediate inspection of the second bridge and a halt to construction until safety and quality standards are verified.
The incident has reignited concerns over adherence to safety protocols in government construction projects in Bihar. Officials have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the collapse or outline steps to prevent future accidents.
