Bengal orders statewide audit of 2,500 bridges after Gujarat collapse sparks safety concerns

The West Bengal government has directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to conduct a comprehensive health audit of all bridges across the state. The order follows the collapse of the Gambhira bridge over the Mahisagar River in Gujarat. As per state records, West Bengal has around 2,500 small and large bridges. Instructions have been issued to pay special attention to old bridges and those that handle high volumes of vehicular traffic.

According to administrative sources, district-level engineers and PWD officials have been asked to begin physical inspections of the structures under their jurisdiction. The directive includes assessing the structural integrity, visible damage, and traffic load of each bridge. However, no specific deadline has been set for completing the audit. The findings are to be submitted for further evaluation and necessary action.

The move comes after multiple vehicles reportedly fell into the river due to the Gujarat bridge collapse, resulting in casualties. A suspended truck from the site drew widespread attention. In response, West Bengal authorities have initiated precautionary measures to examine and verify the condition of all existing bridges.