Baipariguda, Nov 27: The administration has finally shown alertness toward the safety of the British-era hanging iron bridge located near Kota Square at Patraput. After a very long time, departmental officials have turned their attention to this bridge.
The repair work has begun on the iron bridge built over the Kolab River. The safety railings on both sides of the bridge had been cut and stolen by miscreants, leaving it unsafe. Despite this, no repair work had been initiated earlier.
Last year, a man from Andhra Pradesh met with an accident at the spot where the railing had been stolen. His vehicle went straight into the river, and he lost his life. Yet, no action was taken by the concerned department at that time.
Yesterday, the Baipariguda Suraksha Manch staged a five-hour road blockade demanding immediate repair of the bridge as well as the construction of a new one. This protest finally awakened the administration.
The bridge was built in 1931 during British rule. It is said to be an exact replica of Kolkata’s Howrah Bridge. For the past 94 years, it has stood firm, connecting Koraput with Malkangiri.
A notice board indicates that the bridge can safely bear only up to 10 tonnes of weight. However, the biggest threat to the bridge today is from vehicles transporting kendupatta (tendu leaves), which often carry loads far exceeding the limit. This excessive load is putting tremendous pressure on the ageing structure.
Additionally, miscreants frequently steal the iron railings, further endangering its integrity. It is expected that with the replacement of the stolen railings and ongoing repair work, the bridge will once again become safe for public use.