Patna: A bridge in West Champaran district partially collapsed after a section of the structure gave way and fell into the Dhanauti river, according to local residents.
The incident disrupted a major road connecting Bakharia Chowk on NH-727 to Karamwa and parts of East Champaran via Lal Saraiya. Residents said around 10 feet of the bridge collapsed, bringing traffic on the route to a halt.
Tractor involved in incident
According to villagers, the collapse occurred when a loaded tractor was crossing the bridge. The vehicle became trapped after part of the structure caved in.
Residents said a JCB machine was later used to recover the tractor. No fatalities were reported, and the driver escaped without serious injury.
Residents cite deteriorating condition
Local residents alleged that the bridge had been in a dilapidated condition for several months. They claimed a large hole had developed in the middle of the structure and that parts of the railing had already broken.
Villagers said they had repeatedly informed officials about the bridge’s condition and had sought repairs or alternative arrangements. These claims could not be independently verified.
Connectivity affected across villages
The collapse has affected movement between Bakharia, Karamwa, Lal Saraiya, Rajbhar and several neighbouring villages. Residents said the disruption has impacted around 10 villages and multiple panchayats in the area.
Farmers, students, patients and vegetable vendors are among those facing difficulties due to the loss of the route. Many travellers are now using longer alternative roads to reach their destinations, increasing both travel time and costs.
Bridge more than three decades old
Residents of Karamwa panchayat said the bridge over the Dhanauti river was constructed approximately 35 years ago.
They further claimed that a written complaint regarding the structure’s condition had been submitted to district authorities about two months ago.
Demand for alternative arrangements
A large number of villagers gathered at the site after the incident and called for immediate measures to restore connectivity.
Residents have demanded a temporary alternative route and the construction of a new bridge, arguing that timely repairs could have prevented the disruption.
Wider concerns over infrastructure maintenance
The latest collapse has renewed concerns about the condition and maintenance of ageing bridge infrastructure in Bihar. The incident is likely to draw attention to inspection, repair and monitoring mechanisms for public infrastructure across the state.
