Bridge collapse puts commuters at risk in Kamalnagar

KAMALNAGAR, LAXMIPUR, Oct 2: A section of a key bridge built at a cost of nearly Tk 5 crore has collapsed in Kamalnagar Upazila, putting around 30,000 people who use it every day at risk.

A large hole has developed on the southern side of the bridge over the Bhuluya River in Char Kadira Union. The soil and brick chips underneath have subsided, leaving part of the structure hollow and raising fears of a major accident at any time.

The bridge has fallen into such a risky condition only three years after its inauguration.
During a recent visit, this correspondent found that the asphalt and RCC surface beside the southern railing had broken away, creating a large hole. Motorcycles, easy-bikes and CNG-run auto-rickshaws were continuing to cross the bridge despite the danger.

Locals said the bridge is one of the main routes connecting Kamalnagar with the Hanif Road in Noakhali Sadar. Hundreds of vehicles and around 30,000 people use it every day.

The nearby Char Thika Smart Village also depends on the bridge as its main access route.
Locals alleged that a contractor built the bridge under the supervision of the Kamalnagar LGED around three years ago at a cost of nearly Tk 5 crore. They had raised allegations of poor-quality construction materials and irregularities during construction, but those complaints were not addressed.

Kamalnagar Upazila LGED Engineer Mohammad Masud Ur Rahman said he had recently joined the upazila and was aware of the damage.
“We will take steps to repair the bridge as soon as possible,” he said.