Motihari/Patna: A 13-year-old boy died and 11 people were critically injured after an old British-era bridge over the Kachhua River collapsed in Bhagwatpur Bhaluahiya village under Sikarganj police station limits in Bihar’s Motihari district on Sunday.
The victims were crossing the bridge to cut grass when a large section suddenly gave way, sending people and debris plunging into the river. The deceased was identified as the 13-year-old son of Shambhu Mahto, a resident of the village.
The sudden collapse triggered panic among villagers, who rushed to the spot after hearing the loud crash and began rescue efforts.
Villagers Launch Rescue Operation
Local residents helped pull people trapped beneath the debris and took the injured to Dhaka Hospital. After providing first aid, doctors referred them elsewhere because of their critical condition.
Police personnel led by Sikarganj Station House Officer (SHO) Gopal Kumar reached the spot after receiving information about the incident and joined the rescue operation.
According to Kumar, another section of the already dilapidated bridge collapsed while police personnel and villagers were trying to extricate those trapped under the rubble. The rescue team narrowly escaped further harm, with all its members managing to get out safely.
The injured were subsequently taken to a private hospital in Motihari for treatment, Kumar said.
SHO, Village Head Among Injured
Reports indicate that SHO Gopal Kumar and the village mukhiya were also among those injured in the incident.
The tragedy has cast a pall of gloom over Bhagwatpur Bhaluahiya village, while residents have expressed anger and fear over the collapse of the ageing structure.
Locals have raised concerns about the bridge’s dilapidated condition, its maintenance and possible administrative negligence.
Condition Of Injured Under Observation
The administration is investigating the incident and monitoring the condition of the injured. The collapse has also renewed concerns over the safety of old and deteriorating structures in Motihari district.
Further details about the cause of the collapse and any action over the bridge’s maintenance were not immediately available.
