A middle pillar of a four-crore-rupee bridge constructed in 2019 in Bihar’s Araria district reportedly collapsed on Monday, halting all traffic. The video of the collapsed bridge has gone viral on social media gaining millions of views. The bridge, managed by the Rural Works Department, connects Forbesganj with Pategna village along the Parman River in Kevlashi village.
No injuries were reported. District Magistrate Anil Kumar has reportedly ordered a detailed report and a technical team is investigating the cause. This collapse adds to Bihar’s ongoing infrastructure crisis, following over a dozen bridge collapses last year that raised concerns about construction quality.
Historical Context of Bridge Failures in Bihar
The recent collapse is part of a recurring trend of bridge failures in Bihar, with at least 15 such incidents recorded last year alone. Notably, a 12-crore-rupee bridge over the Bakra River in Araria collapsed in 2024 ahead of inauguration.
Investigations pointed to poor construction standards, negligence, and changing river courses contributing to structural weaknesses. The Bihar government has since suspended engineers and called for stricter oversight. These events have compounded public anxiety over safety and infrastructure reliability.
Technical Analysis and Official Statements
Executive Engineer Chandrashekhar Kumar confirmed the four-span bridge’s structural failure, citing that one of its pillars sank into the river. Kumar further explained that alterations attempted by locals to the river’s course may have aggravated the collapse.
District officials emphasised strict adherence to construction and safety norms going forward. Araria officials acknowledged the disruption caused and assured speedy remedial measures. Local politicians blamed poor materials and lax supervision, accusing contractors and officials of corruption, intensifying political debate during election season.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The collapse highlights the urgent need for transparent governance and sustainable infrastructure investments, particularly in rural and flood-prone regions.
Infrastructure failures severely impact daily lives and economic activity, undermining public trust. Beyond political rhetoric, systemic reforms prioritising accountability, advanced engineering practices, and community involvement are essential.
News in Q&A
1. What happened to the bridge in Araria, and where is it located?
On Monday, a middle pillar supporting a four-span, Rs 4 crore bridge in Kevlashi village, Forbesganj block, collapsed into the Parman River. This disrupted connectivity between Forbesganj and Pategna, two important blocks in Araria district, and halted all traffic on the bridge.
2. When was the bridge built, and who was responsible for its construction?
The bridge was built in 2019 by the Rural Works Department, Araria division, to improve local transport infrastructure and connect key rural areas. Despite costing approximately Rs 4 crore, the collapse within six years raises serious questions about construction quality and oversight.
3. Why did the bridge collapse, according to officials?
Preliminary reports suggest poor construction quality and possibly changes in the river’s course may have undermined the structural integrity. Officials, including Executive Engineer Chandrashekhar Kumar, are investigating thoroughly. Earlier reports indicate that engineering negligence was blamed for a series of such collapses across Bihar.
4. What is the government’s response and action plan?
District Magistrate Anil Kumar has ordered a detailed report on the incident, and a technical team has been deployed for investigation. Last year, similar incidents led to the suspension of 15 engineers. The government has pledged strict scrutiny to prevent future collapses and emphasised accountability among contractors and officials.
5. What broader implications does this incident have?
Recurring bridge collapses have sparked political controversy and public anxiety, especially during election season. The infrastructural failures highlight urgent needs for transparency, improved quality control, and citizen engagement to ensure safe, durable public assets. The collapse has disrupted livelihoods and daily commutes, underscoring the human cost of governance lapses.
