Two temporary bridges washed away in Muktsar

Two makeshift bridges over drains at Rupana and Bura Gujjar villages were washed away during the rain on Monday, causing major inconvenience to commuters, forcing them to take detours.

These temporary structures, on the Muktsar-Malout and Muktsar-Ferozepur roads, served as vital links ever since the construction of permanent ones began.

In May, rainwater had submerged the makeshift bridge at Rupana village, but hardly any corrective action was initiated by the authorities.

Sajan Singh Khosa of Rupana said, “The road work has been going on for months. While a permanent bridge is under construction, the makeshift one, which has now been washed away, was substandard. The authorities should have checked whether it met the requisite safety parameters.” The alternative routes were narrow and unfit for heavy vehicles, causing trouble to farmers and local transporters, he added.

Gurjot Singh of Bura Gujjar village said, “The makeshift bridge has been washed away. A proper inquiry must be conducted.”

Former sarpanch of Bura Gujjar village Kabal Singh said, “A breach has also occurred in the drain bank, leading to flooding of nearby fields.”

Muktsar Deputy Commissioner Abhijeet Kaplish said, “I have called a meeting in this regard and will personally visit both sites to assess the situation.”