Under-construction Khordha-Bolangir rail tunnel collapses near Boudh

A portion of the under-construction Khordha-Bolangir railway tunnel reportedly collapsed near Adenigarh in Boudh district.

The reason behind the collapse was not known immediately. The incident led to the formation of a 30-metre-long crater, according to initial reports. Further investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse.

However, no confirmation was immediately received on whether there were workers inside the tunnel or not. 

Concern over quality work

As per reports, a 30-metre-long trench has appeared, causing concern over the quality of work on what is known to be the largest railway tunnel in the state, extending over four kilometres. 

The tunnel was recently celebrated with a formal tunnel breakthrough ceremony. The tunnel's construction was under the supervision of an infrastructure company. 

Local residents have voiced accusations that the contracting company is attempting to underplay the seriousness of the structural failure. The situation calls into question the safety practices and standards adhered to during the construction process, informed sources.

However, the East Coast Railway (ECoR) authorities confirmed that there were no workers inside the tunnel when the incident happened.

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With the breakthrough of the Tunnel, there was renewed determination to accelerate ongoing construction efforts, which aimed to seamlessly connect Odisha's coastal and western regions. 

However, following the recent collapse of the tunnel, question mark has now been raised over the quality of the construction.

Congress delegation to visit spot

As per reports, a delegation led by Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhakta Das will visit the site on Tuesday to assess the extent of the damage and examine the ongoing situation.