Defunct CCTVs, lights on Gurupriya bridge give commuters, security forces a hard time

Malkangiri: Just months after the Gurupriya Bridge was thrown open for commuters, two of the CCTVs and as many as 20 lights installed on the bridge have stopped functioning. Moreover, regular power cut is making it difficult for locals to cross the bridge in darkness.

The Border Security Force (BSF), which is in charge of ensuring safety of commuters on the bridge, has written a letter to the Police department expressing disappointment over the issue.

Subsequently, Odisha Police ADG (Operations) has urged the State government to take immediate steps to fix the problem.

Meanwhile, the engineer in-charge of Public Works Department, Arun Sahoo said "One phase has some trouble that's why lights are not working. It will be fixed soon as I have informed the staff. Electricians have been asked to fix the CCTVs as well."

The security forces are on high alert on account of the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) week being observed by the Maoists.

Combing and anti-insurgency operations have been intensified in various Maoist-dominated districts and in the bordering areas of Odisha because of the PLGA week.