Old bridge to be dismantled after collapse in Yamunanagar

The Irrigation and Water Resources Department has begun the process of dismantling an old bridge on the Western Yamuna Canal in Badhi Majra village, a portion of which collapsed on Tuesday evening.

A tragedy was narrowly averted as no one was on the bridge when it gave way around 5 pm. The incident occurred near the spot where hundreds of devotees had gathered earlier in the day to perform rituals on the occasion of Chhath Puja. Many are believed to have crossed the bridge in the morning while heading to and from the canal ghat.

“After performing pooja, people had returned home, but the bridge suddenly collapsed around 5 pm,” said a local resident. The collapse was reportedly accompanied by a loud noise, triggering panic in the area.

Vijay Garg, Executive Engineer, Irrigation and Water Resources Department, confirmed that the condemned structure would be dismantled. “We have started the process to dismantle the bridge. We will soon write to our higher authorities seeking permission to dismantle it,” he said.

He added that temporary walls would be constructed on both sides to restrict access to pedestrians and vehicles. “We will block complete entry of people and vehicles so that no accident can occur until it is dismantled,” said Garg.

Residents said the bridge had long been in disuse since a new one was constructed alongside it several years ago. “When the new bridge was opened for traffic, the old one should have been demolished,” they added.