In the wake of a deeply embarrassing and dangerous series of bridge collapses that have shaken public confidence, the Bihar government is taking decisive action. To address the growing crisis and prevent future tragedies, the state has enlisted two of India's most prestigious engineering institutions—IIT-Delhi and IIT-Patna—to conduct a sweeping safety audit of 85 major bridges across the state.This urgent move comes after at least five bridge collapses were reported in Bihar in just over a week, sparking public anger and raising serious questions about the quality and safety of the state's infrastructure. The recent incidents, including the collapse of sections of newly constructed bridges in Araria and Siwan, have put immense pressure on the government to ensure the structural integrity of its transportation network.In response, the state's Road Construction Department has commissioned a comprehensive, third-party audit. The expert teams from IIT-Delhi and IIT-Patna will conduct a deep-dive into the structural health of these 85 vital bridges. Their review will be exhaustive, examining everything from the original design and construction methods to the quality of the materials used. The goal is to identify any potential weaknesses, design flaws, or maintenance lapses before they can lead to disaster.Pratyaya Amrit, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Road Construction Department, confirmed the move, stating that this independent review is crucial for ensuring accountability and restoring public faith. By bringing in top-tier, impartial experts, the government aims to get a clear and unbiased assessment of its critical infrastructure.This initiative is more than just a technical review; it's a critical step toward ensuring the safety of millions of commuters who rely on these bridges every day. The findings from this audit are expected to guide future policy on bridge construction, maintenance, and oversight, marking a pivotal moment for infrastructure governance in Bihar.
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