Patna: There is renewed anticipation for the construction of the Sultanganj-Agwanighat Bridge over the Ganga River in the state, with possibilities of recommencing construction from February. The preparatory work is currently underway, involving the removal of debris from the collapsed section of the bridge. Meanwhile, the active construction agency, SP Singla Bridge, is set to undertake the reconstruction of the fallen portion at its own expense, without requiring additional funds from the government.
To ensure the durability and quality construction of the bridge, a new design will be implemented, replacing the previous design. Initially scheduled for completion in 2024, the bridge’s construction is now anticipated to extend until 2026.
After the collapse of three spans of the bridge, work came to a halt. The incident occurred on June 4, 2023, leading to a suspension of construction activities. Subsequently, the matter reached the Patna High Court, where Chief Justice Vinod Chandran and Justice Parth Sarathi issued an order on September 14, 2023. The court directed that SP Singla would cover the costs of rebuilding the damaged section without seeking additional funds from the government.
Earlier, SP Singla had submitted an affidavit to the court, expressing the company’s willingness to bear the expenses for the reconstruction of the damaged part of the bridge. This development comes after the BJP raised concerns and initiated a campaign against Nitish Kumar, the former Chief Minister, regarding the Agwanighat Bridge. The political scenario has intensified, with the BJP stating that there are now only two options left for the government in handling the situation.
Stay tuned for more updates on the construction of the Sultanganj-Agwanighat Bridge and related developments.