Falling Debris From Brahmani Bridge Triggers Panic In Rourkela, NHAI Clarifies

Rourkela: Panic gripped the residents of Rourkela after a video purportedly showing debris falling from the Brahmani river, connecting the Steel City from the rest of the country, went viral on social media.

Though some started assuming that the bridge had got damaged, NHAI Project Director Sourav Chaurasia clarified that there is no need to panic as the bridge is being cleaned and the debris has nothing to do with the condition of the bridge.

Speaking to OTV, Chaurasia said, "Debris had piled up on the corner of the bridge due to which we have to take up cleaning work of the bridge. The dust that is seen falling from the bridge (in the viral video) is from the drainage spouts on the bridge, that carries rainwater down from a platform, which had got chocked."

"There is no issue in the bridge. We are waiting for the new bridge as we have no other option to divert the traffic. We have been provided with the funds (for maintenance of the bridge) but unable to take up the work as there is no diversion option, which I can get after completing one side of the new bridge," said Chaurasia.

He further said, "I have committed to complete the work (one side of the new bridge) by June. Once it is completed, the traffic will be diverted for at least 15 days and within that period, we will complete the maintenance work of the bridge (old one)."

NHAI will ensure the residents of Rourkela will not face any problem due to the bridge, added Chaurasia.