Sixth bridge collapses in Bihar in 10 days amid heavy rains

In Bihar's Thakurganj block, yet another bridge has collapsed, marking the sixth such incident in the last ten days.

The bridge, located in Khoshi Dangi village of Patharia panchayat, sank by a foot after the Bund River's water level surged due to heavy rains. The surface of the bridge cracked, rendering it hazardous for use.

Constructed in 2007-2008 using the MP fund of then-MP Md Tasleemuddin of Thakurganj, this bridge could not withstand the water pressure. It is a vital connector for three to four panchayats, and its collapse would affect a population of 50,000 to 60,000 people.

Just a day earlier, an under-construction bridge in the Madhubani region collapsed. This bridge, being built at a cost of ₹3 crore by the Rural Works Department of the Bihar government, has been under construction since 2021. Prior to this, bridge collapses were also reported in Araria, Siwan, East Champaran, and Kishanganj, sparking various conspiracy theories.

Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi raised concerns, questioning, "Why have bridges started to collapse only after the Lok Sabha elections? Why were such incidents not taking place 15 or 30 days before? Is there any conspiracy to defame the state government?"

The series of collapses has led to increased scrutiny and debate over the quality and oversight of infrastructure projects in the state.