Bengal PWD to conduct urgent health check of 2,200 bridges before monsoon

West Bengal Public Works Department (PWD) is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of bridges across the state. This time, the department has decided to conduct urgent health checks on all 2,200 bridges under its jurisdiction, both large and small, ahead of the monsoon season. The decision comes after the Majerhat Bridge tragedy raised concerns about the safety of critical infrastructure in the state, prompting the government to be especially vigilant.

The health check will focus on bridges in varying conditions—ranging from light to medium to severe. The Public Works Department has recently issued an order for these checks to be completed by April 30. This directive was issued after a high-level meeting on April 3 in Nabanna, attended by Public Works Minister Pulak Roy and Secretary Antara Acharya.

In this meeting, department officials reviewed the status of each bridge, particularly those that might be in poor condition and at risk of failure. A key part of this exercise is the submission of detailed reports about each bridge's condition. These reports will be uploaded onto the state's ‘Samiksha’ portal by the deadline.

The chief engineers of the three zones – East, West, and South Bengal – have been instructed to monitor the progress of the inspections and ensure timely action. Any bridge found to be lacking necessary safety measures will see immediate steps taken, such as the installation of barricades, warning boards, and restrictions on heavy vehicles.