The decades-old bridge over the Kamla River in Darbhanga district has deteriorated and is now in a dilapidated condition. Large cracks have appeared in the bridge's safety walls, raising concerns among local residents about the possibility of an accident. Thousands of people, including schoolchildren, farmers, employees, and operators of small and large vehicles, use the bridge every day. Despite this, residents say no concrete initiative has been taken to improve the bridge's condition or construct a new one.
Local residents said the bridge has required repairs for a long time, but the concerned department has carried out only routine inspections. Over time, the bridge's railings and safety walls have weakened. Concrete has chipped away at several locations, and widening cracks have raised questions about the bridge's structural strength.
Residents said the situation becomes more concerning during the monsoon season. They stated that continuous moisture and rising water levels in the Kamla River have affected the bridge's structure. They expressed concern that if necessary repairs are not carried out or a new bridge is not constructed in time, a major accident could occur in the future.
The bridge connects several nearby villages with the district headquarters and other important markets. Thousands of people travel across it daily to reach schools, colleges, hospitals, government offices, and commercial centres. The bridge is also important for farmers, who use the route to transport agricultural produce to market yards. Residents said the bridge's deteriorating condition is directly affecting local life and economic activities.
Villagers have urged the administration and public representatives to expedite the construction of a new bridge. They said temporary repairs alone would not resolve the issue and that, given increasing traffic and the age of the existing structure, a new and ber bridge built using modern technology is needed to ensure safe transportation in the coming years.
According to local residents, written complaints have been submitted to the concerned department and the administration on several occasions. They said the issue has also been raised before public representatives, but no concrete decision has been announced so far. Villagers warned that they would be compelled to launch a protest if prompt action is not taken.
Road and bridge experts said old bridges should undergo periodic technical inspections and structural audits. They stated that if cracks or structural weaknesses are detected, immediate repairs or, where necessary, the construction of a new bridge should be considered to prevent the risk of accidents.
The administration said information about the bridge's condition has been communicated to the concerned department. Necessary action will be taken after a technical team completes its inspection. If the inspection report finds the bridge to be unsafe, a proposal for repairs or the construction of a new bridge will be prepared.
Residents said their primary demand is for the authorities to treat the bridge's condition seriously and implement a permanent solution at the earliest. They said the bridge is not only a transport link but also a vital route supporting the daily lives, education, healthcare, agriculture, and employment of thousands of people.
