Kadaba: A bridge under construction at Kombaru village in Kadaba taluk collapsed on Saturday evening during ongoing construction work, creating panic at the site. Despite the sudden collapse, all workers present at the location escaped without injuries after moving away from the structure in time.
The bridge was being constructed at Kaapaaru Doddaadka over the Kenjala stream to improve access to a government school in Kombaru village. The project was undertaken to strengthen connectivity for students and local residents and was being executed under a state government school connectivity scheme.
Authorities said the incident occurred while slab installation work was in progress. Though no casualties were reported, the collapse has raised questions regarding construction quality and safety measures at the project site.
Collapse occurred during slab installation work
According to information available, work on the bridge had been progressing for the past three months, with contractors attempting to complete construction before the arrival of the monsoon season and the reopening of schools.
Sources stated that one slab had already been successfully installed at the site. However, the incident occurred during the placement of the second slab when part of the supporting structure reportedly failed.
The iron beam being used to provide structural support is believed to have snapped suddenly, causing instability and resulting in the collapse of the slab section under construction. The structure gave way within moments, creating a frightening situation for workers involved in the project.
Workers at the location reportedly heard unusual sounds from the structure moments before the collapse. Realising that something was wrong, they immediately moved away from the site and avoided injury.
Their quick reaction is believed to have prevented what could have turned into a serious workplace accident.
Project sanctioned under school connectivity scheme
The bridge project was sanctioned under a state government initiative intended to improve connectivity to educational institutions in rural areas.
The project reportedly received a grant of Rs 50 lakh following a recommendation by local MLA Bhagirathi Murulya.
The bridge was expected to provide improved access to the government school in Kombaru village and also benefit nearby residents who depend on the route for daily movement. The project was considered important, particularly during the rainy season, when accessibility in certain areas becomes difficult.
Local residents had anticipated completion of the bridge before schools reopened so that students could travel safely and conveniently.
Residents raise concerns over construction quality
Following the collapse, some residents expressed concern regarding the construction process and quality standards followed during the project.
Locals alleged that the bridge structure was being constructed using only three pillars and questioned whether adequate structural measures had been considered during execution of the work.
They demanded that the damaged portion be rebuilt properly and sought a detailed review of the construction process to avoid similar incidents in future. Concerns were also raised regarding the need for stronger monitoring mechanisms during public infrastructure projects.
Residents stated that projects involving public safety and school access require strict quality control and regular technical supervision.
Officials order reconstruction of damaged section
Authorities confirmed that no injuries or fatalities occurred in the incident.
Assistant executive engineer Pramod Kumar K K said instructions have been issued to contractors to reconstruct the damaged portion properly and ensure that construction standards are maintained.
Officials also stressed the importance of adhering to safety norms during all stages of infrastructure work. They stated that construction procedures would be reviewed and necessary corrective steps would be taken before work resumes.
The incident has once again highlighted the importance of quality checks and safety practices in public construction projects, especially those intended for community use and student access.