The recent collapse of the bridge across the Kali River in Karwar has caused significant disruption and safety concerns. In response, Deputy Commissioner Lakshmi Priya has implemented a temporary ban on Goa-Karwar traffic along National Highway 66. This measure aims to ensure public safety until a safety report on the Kali River Bridge is submitted by the National Highways Authority and the IRB Company.
The IRB Company is responsible for the construction and maintenance of national highways in Uttara Kannada district, including the Kali River Bridge project. As part of this project, a new bridge was constructed over the Kali River while allowing traffic to continue on the old bridge. However, regulations mandated that IRB should have built two new bridges.
Instead of complying with this requirement, the company redirected traffic onto a 41-year-old bridge. This oversight has led to the current crisis and the tragic collapse of the bridge. The failure to meet construction regulations has raised serious questions about the safety and management of infrastructure projects in the region.
Following the incident, a case has been filed against the IRB Company at Karwar Nagar police station under clauses BNS 110, 125, and 285 feet. The case addresses the failure to adhere to safety regulations and the subsequent collapse of the bridge. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and the company’s adherence to construction and safety standards.
The collapse has had a considerable impact on local traffic and safety. The temporary traffic ban on NH 66 will remain in effect until a comprehensive safety assessment is completed. The incident underscores the critical need for rigorous adherence to construction regulations and safety protocols to prevent such tragedies.
Authorities are working to resolve the situation and ensure that necessary measures are put in place to avoid future incidents. The community is awaiting further updates on the investigation and the steps being taken to address the issues highlighted by this tragic event.
