Bridge collapse in Khordha disrupts traffic; road connectivity to villages snapped

A decades-old bridge collapsed in Odisha’s Khordha district on Sunday, bringing commute to a complete halt and leaving a soil-laden Hyva truck stranded on the damaged structure. The incident occurred between Torsingh and Ruapada under Banapur police limits.

According to local sources, the truck was travelling from Gambharimunda towards Banapur in the morning when the weak and aging bridge suddenly gave way as the vehicle was crossing. The structure reportedly split into two parts, trapping the heavy vehicle mid-way. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported, but the driver and helper of the truck fled the spot after the incident.

The collapse has snapped road connectivity to nearly 8–10 nearby villages, causing severe inconvenience to residents. Locals said the bridge was over 40 years old and had long been in a dilapidated condition. They alleged that repeated demands were made for the construction of a new bridge.

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Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), work on a new bridge had reportedly begun in 2021 with a deadline set for 2022. The project was estimated to cost around ₹2.39 crore. However, residents claim the contractor abandoned the work midway, leading to the current crisis.

Police and local authorities are expected to assess the situation and initiate necessary action.