Sixteen engineers from Bihar’s water resources department have been suspended following the collapse of 10 bridges in the last 15 days, according to a statement from the department. Bihar Development Secretary Chaitanya Prasad emphasized the state government’s serious approach to the issue and promised that contractors responsible for the bridges would be identified and held accountable.
The most recent bridge collapse occurred in Saran district on Thursday, marking the third bridge to fall in Saran within 24 hours. The affected districts include Siwan, Saran, Madhubani, Araria, East Champaran, and Kishanganj.
Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary reported that Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has instructed officials to survey all old bridges and identify those needing immediate repairs. Investigations into the collapses are ongoing.
Rashtriya Janata Dal leader Tejashwi Yadav alleged that 12 bridges have collapsed in Bihar since June 18, criticizing both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for their silence on the matter. Yadav accused the state government of widespread corruption, highlighting the failures in governance.
In response, Rural Works Department Minister Ashok Choudhary criticized Yadav for his inaction during his 15-month tenure overseeing the portfolio in the previous mahagathbandhan government. Choudhary argued that the RJD-led government should be held accountable for the current situation.
Sources By Agencies
