A section of an under-construction bridge over River Maneru near Odedu in Mutharam mandal, Peddapalli district, experienced the collapse of a few girders on Monday night. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Residents in the vicinity have been utilizing a temporary road for several months now. Initial assessments suggest that heavy winds may have contributed to the collapse of the girders. The incident was brought to the attention of local authorities by villagers who noticed it in the morning.
Construction of the bridge on River Maneru commenced in 2016 with the aim of reducing the distance between Peddapalli and Jayashankar Bhupalapalli districts. However, progress has been sluggish due to funding constraints and changes in contractors. Despite repeated demands from local communities for the timely completion of the project, there has been little improvement in the pace of work. Concerns have also been raised regarding the quality of construction.
The bridge, once completed, will connect Odedu in Mutharam mandal with Garmillapalli in Tekumatla mandal, spanning Peddapalli and Jayashankar Bhupalapalli districts.
Satyanarayana from Manthani attributed the collapse of the girders to heavy winds in the area. He further highlighted that residents are utilizing a temporary gravel road, constructed by private individuals across River Maneru, albeit at a distance from the under-construction bridge. Notably, toll taxes are being collected for vehicles using this alternative route.