Patna, May 07(BiharTimes):
A major disruption hit Bihar's transport network after a portion of the Vikramshila Bridge over the Ganga in Bhagalpur was damaged, severing a critical link between Bhagalpur and Naugachhia and impacting connectivity across at least 16 districts.
Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary has ordered an urgent technical assessment and immediate traffic diversions to manage the fallout. A high-level team comprising officials from the Bihar State Bridge Construction Corporation Limited, along with experts from IIT Patna and NIT Patna, is currently in Bhagalpur to investigate the cause of the damage. The team, led by the state's engineer-in-chief (works management), is expected to submit a detailed report soon.
The incident occurred around 12:55 am on Sunday when a slab of the bridge reportedly collapsed. The structure had shown visible cracks in recent days, according to local commuters. The sudden failure brought traffic to a standstill, cutting off a vital corridor connecting Bhagalpur and Seemanchal, including districts such as Purnia, Katihar, and Kishanganj, and affecting movement towards Nepal.
In response, the Chief Minister held a high-level review meeting in Patna, directing officials to ensure swift alternative arrangements for commuters and expedite restoration work once expert findings are available. He also issued a stern warning on maintenance lapses, calling for strict enforcement of safety standards across all major bridges in the state.
Chairman of the Bridge Construction Corporation, Chandrashekhar Singh, said the Chief Minister has reached out to the Defence Ministry and the Army leadership to explore emergency connectivity solutions. Assistance from the Border Roads Organisation and Army units is being sought to restore movement at the earliest.
As interim relief, the state government has launched free steamer services for pedestrians and two-wheelers across the Ganga to ease public hardship. Authorities have also been directed to streamline vehicular traffic along the alternate Munger–Bhagalpur route via the Shri Krishna Setu and National Highway-33.
The Vikramshila Bridge is a lifeline connecting southern Bihar to the Seemanchal region, and its disruption has triggered widespread logistical and economic concerns. Further action will depend on the findings of the technical assessment.
