Several vehicles were caught in the sudden collapse of a bridge at Anipur market under the Ramkrishnanagar constituency in Sribhumi district on Wednesday, leaving two persons seriously injured and triggering panic in the area.
Officials said one of the injured was rushed to Sribhumi Civil Hospital, while the other was admitted to Chargola Model Primary Health Centre (MPHC) for treatment.
Eyewitnesses reported that chaos broke out within moments of the collapse, leaving drivers and passengers stranded. Two heavy dumpers, two hatchback cars, a motorcycle and an auto-truck were among the vehicles reportedly damaged in the incident.
On receiving information, Circle Officer Souvik Dutta reached the spot along with police personnel and other administrative officials. Rescue operations were launched immediately, and traffic in the area was brought under regulation, according to reports.
Eyewitness and advocate Mrityunjoy Nath said the bridge had been in a precarious condition for a long time. He pointed out that the alternative bridge at Dullabhchara is currently closed, forcing hundreds of vehicles to use the Anipur bridge ежедневно, increasing pressure on the structure.
“The Anipur bridge was the main communication link for the market and nearby areas. Its collapse will severely disrupt connectivity for residents of the Ramkrishnanagar co-district,” Nath said.
The incident has also raised serious questions about the quality of construction and departmental supervision. Some locals alleged that government funds had been spent on repairing the bridge only a few days ago, sparking concerns over possible negligence.