The Detailed Project Report (DPR) of the controversial Haladiapadar overbridge, often dubbed the “killer bridge” following multiple fatal accidents, has ignited a sharp political confrontation in Odisha. The bridge connects National Highway 16 to Brahmapur via Mukhashala and has long been under scrutiny over alleged design changes.
Fatal Accident Intensifies Controversy
The debate escalated after a recent tragic accident claimed five lives and left six others critically injured. The incident renewed public outrage and amplified long-standing allegations that alterations to the original DPR compromised road safety.
Following the accident, the Supreme Court of India Road Safety Committee intervened, directing Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg to submit a comprehensive report by March 5. The report is expected to detail the cause of the accident, corrective measures to prevent recurrence, and the deployment of an expert team for assessment.
Allegations Against Previous Government
Opposition parties have alleged that the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) government modified the bridge’s original design to benefit certain influential individuals.
Local residents have been protesting for years, claiming their concerns about safety hazards were ignored. They argue that the bridge was aligned directly with the highway in a risky manner, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Political Leaders Trade Charges
Sankhemundi MLA Ramesh Jena alleged that the DPR was altered to protect properties linked to late MLA Surya Patra and the former mayor.
“The original map was changed and the bridge was constructed accordingly. That is why so many accidents are happening,” Jena claimed, placing responsibility on Patra’s family.
Echoing similar concerns, BJP MLA Sidhant Mahapatra demanded a thorough probe. “For whom was the DPR changed? How did the straight overbridge connect directly to the national highway? The truth will emerge through an investigation,” he stated.
Experts Suggest Structural Review
Road safety experts have urged the state government to provide accurate information to the Supreme Court committee and consider drastic corrective measures, including possible demolition and reconstruction if structural flaws are confirmed.
Meanwhile, neither Patra’s family nor the former mayor has responded to the allegations.
Residents Demand Immediate Action
As political tensions escalate, residents of Brahmapur and surrounding areas are demanding swift government intervention to prevent further tragedies. With the Supreme Court monitoring the issue, all eyes are now on the state administration’s response and the findings of the upcoming report.