Road on Newly Constructed Bridge Subsides Even Before Formal Inauguration
Just Two Months After Construction, Road Along Canal Bank Collapses
Sri Kiratpur Sahib, June 29, 2025 – Despite the government’s continuous claims of holistic development in the historic town of Sri Kiratpur Sahib, the reality appears different when it comes to quality. While several large-scale infrastructure projects are being showcased, their durability is being questioned, as seen in this case where natural rainfall has exposed major flaws within just two months.
A newly constructed bridge over the Bhakra canal, meant to provide relief and connectivity to the residents of Kiratpur Sahib, was made operational only two months ago. However, the bridge is yet to be formally inaugurated. In a concerning development, the road leading to and from the bridge—built along the canal bank—has already begun to subside, sparking fear and anxiety among local residents.
It is worth noting that the construction of this bridge, which serves as a primary entry point to Kiratpur Sahib, has been ongoing for over five years. In the past, after the initial construction, the bridge had once tilted dangerously into the canal and had to be repaired and realigned. Yet now, just two months after the approach road was laid, visible damage has occurred as parts of the road have collapsed into the canal bank.
Photographs of the damage have surfaced, raising serious concerns about the quality of construction. Locals are voicing their anger, remarking that the bridge hasn’t even been inaugurated and already its condition is deteriorating. Ironically, neither the current minister nor any former minister has had the chance to formally inaugurate the project, and yet ordinary citizens and workers are already facing public criticism.
Such substandard construction calls into question the responsibility of government departments—whether it lies with the oversight officials or the contractors. When attempts were made to contact officials from the PWD and B&R departments at Sri Anandpur Sahib for comment, no response could be obtained due to it being a Sunday.
Now, all eyes are on whether the damaged road will be repaired before the bridge’s official inauguration, or whether public anger and ridicule will continue to mount while political leaders remain on the defensive.