Motihari: Questions have been raised over the construction quality of the Majuraha-Hardia RCC bridge in East Champaran district after cracks appeared on its approach road just 20 days after its inauguration.

The bridge was reportedly constructed at a cost of around ₹13 crore. A crack measuring approximately 20 feet has appeared on one section of the approach road, while part of the road also appears to have subsided.

Inaugurated on September 1

The bridge between Majuraha and Hardia is around 72 metres long and approximately 7.5 metres wide. It was inaugurated by Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on September 1 during the Bapudham Mahotsav.

After the bridge opened, it was expected to make travel easier between the district headquarters and several nearby blocks. Residents had been waiting for the bridge for a long time and expected improved connectivity and reduced travel time.

However, the condition of the approach road just days after the inauguration has now led to discussions about the quality of the project.

Crack and subsidence reported on approach road

Images that have emerged show a long crack on one section of the road. A portion of the approach road also appears to have sunk.

The early damage to a newly constructed road has prompted local residents to demand a technical inspection of the entire construction work.

Residents have questioned how aspects such as soil filling, preparation of the base, compaction and drainage arrangements were assessed during construction.

Technical inspection needed to determine the cause

However, reaching a final conclusion about construction defects solely on the basis of cracks and subsidence would be premature. The actual reason can only be established after examining possible technical factors such as soil settlement, the condition of the base and drainage arrangements.

A technical assessment of the approach road’s structure, construction materials, soil quality, layering and compaction would be important in determining the cause.

Residents await investigation and action

The bridge was expected to improve connectivity for surrounding areas. Following the appearance of cracks and subsidence just 20 days after its inauguration, residents are now awaiting action from the administration and the concerned department.

Residents have demanded an impartial technical investigation and said that if any violation of prescribed standards or negligence is established, responsibility should be fixed.

The actual reason for the damage to the approach road will become clear only after the investigation.