Uttarakhand Bridge Fails: Design Flaws Suspected

The Uttarakhand government has taken action following the collapse of the Nanda Ki Chowki bridge's approach road, which occurred 16 days after its inauguration on July 12. A show-cause notice has been issued to the design consultant, Design Tech Structural Consultant, demanding an explanation within 15 days for alleged deficiencies in the bridge's design. These deficiencies, identified in a preliminary probe, reportedly include a failure to provide mandatory river diversion work and insufficient river training provisions, despite the Tons River's naturally meandering course.

The heavy rainfall preceding the incident on July 28 weakened the supporting area, leading to a cavity beneath the approach road and its subsequent collapse. Investigations also revealed that the scour depth assessment at the site was incomplete. Consequently, the registration of the contractor, M/s Himalayan Construction, has been suspended with immediate effect, barring them from future Public Works Department tenders. Three PWD engineers were also suspended for alleged negligence.

Ruchi Bhatt, a stakeholder in M/s Himalayan Construction, acknowledged her shareholding but stated acceptance of the inquiry findings. She highlighted the government's prompt action despite her association with the firm. The administrative action against the consultant is expected to potentially involve debarring them from departmental empanelment.