Patna: The state road construction department has expedited emergency measures to restore traffic movement on the Vikramshila Setu after structural damage to a section of the bridge disrupted connectivity in Bhagalpur and surrounding districts.
A high-level meeting chaired by road construction department secretary Pankaj Kumar Pal was held on Thursday to review the condition of the bridge and accelerate repair plans. Officials from the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), IIT Patna, bridge engineering experts and senior department officers attended the meeting.
Authorities discussed structural assessments, repair timelines and temporary alternatives to resume traffic movement at the earliest possible stage.
Structural concerns trigger urgent intervention
According to officials, one span of the bridge has developed significant structural issues, prompting urgent intervention. Presentations made during the meeting focused on maintenance plans, engineering design proposals and phased restoration of transport services.
Among the immediate solutions under consideration is the construction of a Bailey bridge with the assistance of the BRO. Officials said the temporary structure would allow partial traffic movement and reduce disruption for commuters.
“The objective is to restore traffic partially at the earliest so that inconvenience to the public can be minimised,” Pal said during the meeting.
Bridge described as a ‘lifeline’ for the region
He described the Vikramshila Setu as a “lifeline” for Bhagalpur and nearby districts, underlining the economic and logistical importance of restoring connectivity quickly.
In addition to the Bailey bridge, authorities also plan to construct a two-lane truss bridge, with a separate provision for pedestrians. The state government has set a target of completing the structure within two months.
IIT Patna tasked with full safety audit
Meanwhile, IIT Patna has been tasked with carrying out a comprehensive safety audit of the entire bridge. Officials expect the report within three weeks, after which longer-term decisions on strengthening and rehabilitation work will be taken.
Engineers and the technical teams have been instructed to remain stationed at the site until restoration work progresses substantially. Pal said there would be “no tolerance for delays” in repair and traffic recovery operations.
Major impact on connectivity and trade
Vikramshila Setu, which spans the Ganges river, is a critical transport corridor linking northern and the southern Bihar districts. Any prolonged closure is expected to have a significant impact on regional trade, travel and daily commuting.
Vikramshila Setu, which spans the Ganges river, is a critical transport corridor linking northern and southern Bihar. Any prolonged closure is expected to have a significant impact on regional trade, travel and daily commuting
