Barak Bailey Bridge collapses at Koide Biisho
Source: Chronicle News Service
Senapati, November 22 2022:
Barak Bailey Bridge situated at Koide Biisho under Senapati district collapsed on Tuesday around 8 am when a truck loaded with cement bags crossed the bridge, causing severe transportation problem thereafter.
The Bailey bridge was inaugurated by K Ranjit Singh, the then works minister, on May 13, 2008 in the presence of Md Allaudin, former minister RD & PR & MOBC, N Biren Singh, former minister IFC & YAS, and DD Thaisii, former minister Hills, TD, Vety & AH.
On enquiry, nut bolts were found missing.
Steel decks of the bridge made loud noises due loose bolts and the panel which was placed between the walls was weakened by loss of bolts/loose bolts.
Maram-Phaibung Road Development Commit tee had earlier submitted a memorandum to the chief engineer of PWD, apprising about deteriorating condition of the bridge.
However, no action was taken up to date as reported by the road development committee.
Majority of the Poumai Naga villages passes through the road as well as a passage from Senapati to Ukhrul also passes through the route.
Koide villagers mentioned that more than 400 vehicles pass to and fro along the route every day.
Speaking at the spot, KS Solomon, convenor Maram-Phaibung Road Development Committee, informed that the fateful incident was feared by all since the past.
Although no casualty was reported due to the incident, the committee reported that no repair work was initiated in spite of repeated appeals for renovation or upgrade of the structure to avoid mishaps.
Ihe committee convenor appealed to the authorities concerned to do the needful at the earliest.
With the coming of festive season, commuters and travellers face inconvenience due to the collapse of the Bailey bridge, he added.
Inspecting and taking stock of the situation at the site, Karong MLA J Kumo Sha informed that he had apprised the matter to the chief minister and the minister concerned, expressing hope that immediate step would be taken up.
The MLA mentioned that it is the only route leading to Poumai Naga community.
He then thanked the land owners for allowing a diversionary route near the incident site.
During the inspection, the local MLA also mooted construction of an RCC bridge to replace the old one as the bridge is the lifeline for Poumai Naga community.
The inspection was carried out in the presence of Maram-Phaibung Road Development Committee, Koide Union, Poumai Naga Students Union (PNTM) and some village leaders of Koide Biisho village.
Different Poumai Naga civil societies have appealed to authorities concerned to immediately intervene into the matter.
Meanwhile, Senapati DC has issued an order for complete closure of Barak Bailey Bridge with immediate effect.