Mangaluru: A mini tempo crashed into the compound wall of the Netravathi Bridge in the early hours of Wednesday, overturning after the impact and causing extensive damage to the iron safety fencing installed along the structure. The driver escaped with minor injuries.
According to police sources, the accident occurred when the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle while passing over the bridge. The tempo rammed into the compound wall and ploughed into the iron barricade before overturning. Locals and passers-by rushed to the spot and helped the driver out of the damaged vehicle.
The injured driver sustained minor injuries and was given first aid. No other vehicles were reportedly involved in the mishap.
Fencing worth nearly ₹60 lakh damaged
The impact severely damaged portions of the iron safety fencing that had been installed along the bridge at a cost of nearly ₹60 lakh. The fencing was put up about five years ago following a series of suicide incidents reported from the bridge.
The protective barriers were part of a broader safety initiative aimed at preventing people from jumping into the river. The installation included high iron grills and surveillance systems designed to deter suicide attempts and improve monitoring.
In the aftermath of Wednesday’s accident, several sections of the fencing were left bent, torn and partially detached from their fixtures. Visuals of the damaged barricade quickly circulated on social media platforms, triggering concern among residents.
Background of safety measures
The installation of fencing and CCTV cameras was undertaken after a spate of suicides from the bridge drew widespread public attention. Among the most high-profile incidents was the death of V. G. Siddhartha, founder of Cafe Coffee Day and son-in-law of former Chief Minister S. M. Krishna. He had jumped into the river from the bridge, an incident that had drawn nationwide attention and intensified calls for preventive measures.
Subsequently, the Mangaluru Urban Development Authority sanctioned around ₹63 lakh to install fencing and CCTV cameras along the bridge. The measures were implemented to curb suicide attempts and enhance overall safety.
Over the past five years, the fencing and surveillance systems have largely proven effective, significantly reducing such incidents. Only two reported cases surfaced during this period in which individuals allegedly managed to bypass the barrier through a pipeline fixed to the bridge wall.
Maintenance of the fencing and CCTV system was later handed over to the Mangaluru City Corporation.
Concerns over vulnerability
Following the recent accident, residents have expressed concern that the damaged fencing could once again make the bridge vulnerable to suicide attempts if immediate repairs are not undertaken. The viral videos showing broken and twisted iron grills have sparked discussions about public safety and the need for urgent intervention.
Civic activists have urged authorities to cordon off the damaged portion and carry out repairs at the earliest. They have also called for a review of the structural stability of the fencing to ensure it can withstand accidental impacts in the future.
Officials are expected to assess the extent of the damage and initiate repair work soon. Meanwhile, traffic movement on the bridge continued, though motorists were advised to exercise caution while passing through the affected stretch.
Need for prompt action
The bridge has long been a crucial connectivity point and a sensitive location due to its history of suicide incidents. The protective infrastructure had provided reassurance to residents and commuters alike.
With sections of the fencing now damaged, the incident has highlighted the importance of timely maintenance and swift restoration of safety features. Residents have appealed to the authorities to prioritise repairs to prevent any untoward incidents.
Further details regarding the accident and repair plans are awaited from officials.