Jeypore, 18th Oct 2025: A new bridge will be constructed over the Kolab River near Patraput. After the previous tender was canceled, a fresh DPR (Detailed Project Report) has now been prepared. As per the new DPR, the project has been approved at a cost of ₹21.21 crore, and an official letter regarding the same was received today. Once the tendering process is complete, construction will begin, according to Gouranga Majhi, Executive Engineer of the National Highways Division.
Background:
A steel bridge built in 1931 during British rule currently exists at the site but is now in a dilapidated and dangerous condition. Due to its poor safety, various local organizations have long demanded a new bridge. Warnings of protests were issued if immediate steps were not taken.
The 326 Ranchi-Vizianagaram National Highway passes through this area, connecting Andhra Pradesh (via Lamtaput), Malkangiri, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. Thousands of heavy vehicles cross this old iron bridge daily, further weakening it. In several places, iron angles have been stolen, and the road surface is badly damaged. Initially, the bridge was under the control of the Public Works Department, but in 2016-17, it was handed over to the National Highways Division.
Previous Developments:
Three years ago, recognizing the bridge’s hazardous condition, the department had planned an alternative bridge to the west of the river. An estimate of ₹24.33 crore was made. However, due to various reasons, the tender was canceled twice.
On the third attempt, Brajesh Agrawal, a contractor from Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, was awarded the tender for ₹18.70 crore, and an agreement was signed on November 11, 2019. However, the contractor failed to begin the work. Despite repeated notices, no progress was made, and eventually, the contract was terminated by the department.
Due to continued demands from various organizations, a new DPR was prepared by a private agency, with an estimated cost of ₹22.84 crore, which was sent to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), New Delhi, for approval.
Due to some internal issues, the project estimate was revised, and now the Ministry has officially approved ₹21.21 crore for the construction of the new bridge.
It remains unclear whether the DPR is based on the old design or includes a new design—the department stated that clarity on this will come once the final design report is received
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