In Araria district, Bihar, the recent completion of a bridge has sparked considerable controversy and concern due to its problematic construction. This bridge, which cost Rs 3 crore, was intended as part of a broader road and bridge project under the Chief Minister Gramin Sadak scheme, aimed at improving connectivity for residents in Parmanandpur village. However, the bridge stands isolated in an open field, lacking any connecting roads on either side, rendering it functionally obsolete.
The project was meant to include a 3-kilometer stretch of road along with the bridge, designed to facilitate better transportation and connectivity for villagers, particularly during the rainy season when a nearby river causes significant flooding and impedes movement. Unfortunately, while the piece of land directly under the bridge was successfully acquired, the surrounding land necessary for constructing approach roads was not. This incomplete land acquisition has resulted in the bridge being constructed without the vital infrastructure needed to make it usable.
Local residents have expressed frustration over the situation, as the bridge, which was expected to alleviate travel difficulties, now serves no practical purpose without the necessary roads linking it to the surrounding areas. The incomplete project has left the bridge standing alone, with no clear path connecting it to the villages it was supposed to serve. This situation has led to questions about the planning and oversight of the project, as well as concerns about the effective use of public funds.
In light of these issues, Araria District Magistrate Inayat Khan has taken notice of the situation and is actively addressing the matter. Khan has requested a detailed report from the executive engineer regarding the project and has instructed the Sub-Divisional Officer, Circle Officer, and the relevant engineer to visit the site and assess the situation. He has stated, "This matter has come to my notice. A report has been sought from the executive engineer in this regard. Along with this, the Sub-Divisional Officer, Circle Officer, and the concerned engineer have been asked to visit the site and the area."
Khan further explained that the investigation will focus on understanding how the project was approved and executed despite the incomplete land acquisition. He emphasized that necessary actions will be taken based on the findings of the investigation to address the oversight and ensure that similar issues are avoided in future projects.
The current state of the bridge underscores broader challenges in infrastructure development, where incomplete planning and execution can lead to wasted resources and ineffective projects. The administration's response to rectify the situation will be closely monitored by the local community, as well as by other stakeholders involved in infrastructure development. This case highlights the need for thorough planning and coordination in public works projects to ensure that investments lead to meaningful and functional outcomes for the communities they are meant to serve.
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